Chad has been making strategic moves to strengthen its relationship with Russia, causing concerns for the US and France, its traditional Western allies. President Mahamat Déby’s meetings with Russian leaders signal a shift towards Moscow, with discussions on military partnerships and cultural ties. Despite some challenges, Chad’s ties with Russia are deepening, unsettling the US and France. The region’s anti-Western sentiment and involvement of Russian military contractors add complexity to Chad’s geopolitical position.
With neighboring countries in turmoil, Chad stands as a stable partner to the West, giving Déby leverage in managing relations with Washington and Paris. The return of US forces post-election hints at ongoing cooperation. While Moscow’s influence in Chad raises alarm, France and the US hope Déby sees Russia as a diplomatic complement, not a replacement to the West. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, Chad’s strategic importance becomes critical in a region plagued by instability and external influences.
Written by Paul Melly, a consulting fellow with the Africa Programme at Chatham House in London, this analysis sheds light on Chad’s evolving relationships and the challenges it poses for Western powers.
Source link