The Pentagon has announced the repositioning of American troops from Chad, marking a significant shift in the United States’ military presence in Africa.
This move comes shortly after the decision to withdraw forces from Niger, signaling a broader reassessment of the US’s counterterrorism strategy in the region.
Currently, the US maintains a contingent of around 100 troops in Chad, primarily focused on combating extremist threats in West Africa.
Major General Pat Ryder, the Pentagon’s press secretary, indicated that this repositioning is a temporary measure within the broader scope of an ongoing security cooperation review, set to continue post-Chad’s presidential elections on May 6.
“USAFRICOM is currently planning to reposition some US military forces from Chad, a portion of which were already scheduled to depart,”
“This is a temporary step as part of an ongoing review of our security cooperation, which will resume after Chad’s May 6 presidential election.” he said.
The retraction of approximately 75 US Army Special Forces members is expected to commence imminently and conclude swiftly, barring unforeseen diplomatic shifts.
This development follows a request from Chad’s air force chief for the US to cease operations at the Adji Kossei Air Base, citing a lack of justification for their presence.
“The presence of American forces in Chad was initially motivated by a common commitment to the fight against terrorism, an objective shared between the two nations,”
“However, concerns have been expressed by the Chadian general staff about this presence” and “in recognition of the concerns expressed, the US government has decided to temporarily withdraw its forces from Chad,” said Chadian spokesperson, Abderaman Koulamallah.
“It is important to stress that this withdrawal in no way signifies a break in cooperation between the two countries in the fight against terrorism.
“Further discussions will take place to explore the possibility of the return of US forces in the case of a specific bilateral agreement between the two nations.”
The US forces stationed at Adji Kossei have been instrumental in training Chadian anti-terrorism units and elite army forces, particularly in countering the Boko Haram insurgency.
The recalibration of US military operations also extends to Niger, where over 1,000 US personnel are stationed, including at a significant drone base.
The US is engaging in dialogue with Niger regarding an orderly withdrawal, maintaining a commitment to addressing regional terrorist threats.
This strategic pivot occurs against the backdrop of General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno’s leadership in Chad, following a coup in 2021.
As the nation approaches its presidential elections, with Deby Itno as a candidate amidst a controversial political climate, the US’s military adjustments reflect a nuanced approach to its engagement in Africa’s complex security landscape.
