Military interventions face limits in the Sahel

Significance

Both are in the process of finalising their departures, amid deteriorating relations with the Nigerien and Malian juntas respectively, and growing popular rejection of the legitimacy of their presence.

Impacts

• Continued French military backing for Chad’s government could further inflame popular anger at France in the country.
• France is likely to reduce further its military footprint on the continent.
• The US decision to remain in Niger could leave it vulnerable to local politics.