In light of attacks on UN forces, the United States has expressed alarm about the possibility of Mali’s conflict escalating.
The attacks were “unacceptable,” according to State Department spokesman Matthew Miller, who also denounced “such violence and the greater threat posed by armed actors operating” there.
The UN peacekeeping operation in Mali, Minusma, announced on Monday that deteriorating security had compelled them to leave the northern town of Ber earlier than usual.
It claimed that two attacks on its retreating forces resulted in some of the soldiers being hurt.
According to the US State Department, the attacks show how dangerous escalating violence is and how crucial it is for all Malian parties to resolve their issues amicably.
It continues, “We call on the transition administration to cooperate completely until the final Minusma element departs. It is essential that Minusma be permitted to undertake its departure in a secure and orderly way.