Senegal's President gives French troops 48 hours to leave: End of France in Africa.

Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of Senegal, recently called for the withdrawal of French troops from the country, emphasizing Senegal's sovereignty and independence. This marks the first formal government request to end the French military presence, which has existed since Senegal's independence in 1960. Faye's statement aligns with growing anti-French sentiment in West Africa, where countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have expelled French troops in recent years. The call for troop withdrawal coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Thiaroye massacre, a tragic event in 1944 where French forces killed hundreds of African riflemen who demanded their pay. Faye used this moment to reflect on historical injustices and advocate for national autonomy, highlighting the broader regional shift toward redefining security partnerships and reducing foreign military influence​. This decision also reflects a regional trend where countries in the Sahel are reevaluating their relationships with former colonial powers in favor of more locally-driven policies.