Russia's Wagner Group and Egyptian military back Sudanese army in crisis

France is concerned about the Russian mercenary group Wagner's role in Sudan and its potential to expand Russian influence in the country. Wagner has been present in Sudan since 2017, offering training and intelligence support to the Sudanese army, and has recently taken over management of some of the country's gold mines. France is pushing for a ceasefire in Sudan and coordinating with other countries to evacuate its citizens and diplomatic staff. The crisis in Sudan could easily become regional, affecting neighboring countries such as Egypt, Libya, Chad, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Eritrea. Maintaining Chad's stability is a priority for France.