US condemns killing of French soldier in Mali
Washington, US (PANA) - The United States has condemned unequivocally the militant attack last Friday that led to the death of a French soldier of the Barkhane force near Gossi in northern Mali.
A statement by the Spokesperson of the US State Department, Ned Price, said the tragic loss underscores the sacrifice so many soldiers have made for security in the Sahel.
The US extended its condolences to the people of France and said: "We stand firmly beside our close ally France and continue to partner with Mali on its path back to democracy and stability."
The soldier was killed during an operation in northern Mali against terrorist groups.
Master Corporal Maxime Blasco was shot by a sniper who was later neutralised by French commandos.
The N'Daki forest in the locality of Gossi is infested by terrorist groups that have been attacking Malian, French and UN troops as well as civilians. They have killed dozens of people since the beginning of the security crisis in Mali in 2012.
-0- PANA MA 27Sept2021
