It is official, the French president, Emmanuel Macron announced, Thursday, the upcoming end of the military operation Barkhane in the Sahel. This is because of the current strategy adopted for the implementation of the operation. There will be a new strategy for the French military in the Sahel. The fight against terrorism will then be entrusted to special forces structured around the Takuba operation.

Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday 10 June, at a press conference, at the Elysée Palace ahead of the G7 summit that the anti-jihadist military operation Barkhane should be stopped. This mission has so far consisted of chasing jihadists in pick-up trucks. The operation in Mali is mainly affected by this decision. This country was facing political instability. 2 coups in only 9 months.

New approach

The French president's decision was already expected, so it really comes as no surprise. The strategic change was a topic of discussion since the end of 2020. Remained in the framework of the fight against terrorism with international partners but with a new approach.

Macron, according to his statement, did not say to withdraw the French military, but to adapt a new strategy to fight terrorism. "Following consultations, we will initiate a profound transformation of our military presence in the Sahel," he said.

Furthermore, Thomas Gassilloud, from the French National Defense and Armed Forces Commission, added in his interview on France24 that "it is not a withdrawal, but an evolution".

Will Franco-American cooperation be broken?

According to one source, the Americans understand France's reaction. The Americans are very attentive when it comes to security, especially in the event of war.

Moreover, according to reports, the Americans often tend to turn to the French when it comes to security in Africa, even if it is only to ask for advice.

France relies on the European special forces group Takuba, which it has activated and which currently comprises 600 men in Mali, half of them French, and dozens of Czechs and Estonians and about 140 Swedes. The timetable and modalities for the end of Operation Barkhane will be announced by the end of June.

Santie

Photo credit : Polynésie

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