Senegalese and Chadian leaders say the ousting of French troops from their territories was their sovereign decision, rejecting remarks from French President Emmanuel Macron that suggested otherwise.

Experts say they are following the example of Sahel countries as local leaders and populations want more sovereignty over their security

French troops will soon begin departing Ivory Coast, raising questions about what France's military presence in West Africa will look like, and how Ivory Coast will fill the security void. With the exit of French troops from Ivory Coast,