Senegal and Chad leaders asserted that the removal of French troops was a reflection of their sovereignty, countering French President Macron's claims.
Macron suggested that France's troop departure strategy was negotiated with African leaders, which Senegal's Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko denied.
Sonko emphasized Senegal's independence and stated that no discussions had occurred regarding the troop presence.
Chadian Foreign Minister Koulamallah criticized Macron's comments, stating they show a lack of respect towards African nations.
This reflects a broader trend of decreasing French military influence in Africa, as several countries, including Mali and Burkina Faso, have expelled French forces.