On Sunday morning, the peacekeepers were again targeted in Mali by those who want to spread fear and division.

The terrorist attack on a MINUSMA camp deployed in northern Mali caused the death of eight Chadian contingent soldiers, as well as dozens of wounded.

“The European Union extends its sincere condolences to the families of the victims, Chad, Mali and the United Nations, and wishes a speedy recovery to the wounded. This attack also strikes the entire international community. Those responsible must be arrested and prosecuted” says the statement of the European External Actions Service spokesperson.

“We reiterate our strong support for those who work for the restoration of peace in Mali, such as MINUSMA and Barkhane. The European Union will continue to work alongside Mali in this direction, as well as with the other G5 Sahel countries – some of which have recently been attacked – to roll back terrorism and allow people to live in safety and harmony. The recent resumption of Joint Force operations, which the European Union strongly supports, is in this respect a favorable development.”