In early 1778:

a. France withdrew military naval support from the U. S., but continued to provide monetary assistance and supplies.
b. Expelled the colonies’ diplomats, including Benjamin Franklin, from Paris.
c. Agreed to give the Americans money and supplies, but withheld its soldiers.
d. Declared war on both England and Spain.
e. Recognized the United States as a sovereign nation to help prevent it from abandoning the war effort.