The decision by Chad is another blow to what remained of France’s military influence in the troubled stretch of countries below the Sahara, where Russia’s influence has been growing.

“After 66 years since the independence of the Republic of Chad, it is time for Chad to assert its full sovereignty, and to redefine its strategic partnerships according to national priorities,” Chad’s Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah said in a statement late Thursday.

France's decision to review its footprint in West Africa comes after its soldiers had to pull out from Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, following military coups in all three countries and spreading anti-French sentiment.