Colonial Mindset? French President Macron Insults African Nations

French President Emmanuel Macron's recent remarks have sparked significant backlash from African leaders. Speaking to French ambassadors on January 6, 2025, Macron expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of gratitude from African nations for France's military interventions against Islamist militants in the Sahel region. "I think that they forgot to say 'thank you.' It does not matter, it will come with time," Macron said, suggesting that without French military support, some African nations might have lost their sovereignty.

This remarks were met with strong rebukes. Chad’s Foreign Minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, called them "contemptuous," urging French leaders to respect African people and acknowledge their sacrifices. Similarly, Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, rejected Macron’s implications, emphasizing that Senegal’s decision to expel French troops was made independently, without French influence.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions amid a broader reassessment of France’s military presence in Africa. Nations including Senegal, Chad, and Ivory Coast have recently announced the withdrawal of French forces, reflecting a growing push for sovereignty and a reevaluation of foreign military involvement on the continent.

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