Russia to rotate Sudan peacekeepers next January

November 17, 2007 (MOSCOW) — The Russian air group, part of the UN Mission in Sudan, will carry out a regular rotation from January 28 until February 2, 2008, an aide to the Russian Air Force commander said Saturday.

The group, consisting of 120 personnel and four Mi-8 helicopters, provides transport for UN military observers in Sudan, as well as transporting and accompanying cargoes, and carrying out rescue operations the RIA Novosti reported today.

“We have set up a coordination group to start the preparation for a scheduled rotation of the Russian air group as part of the UN Mission in Sudan,” Colonel Alexander Drobyshevsky said.

The first team of Russian peacekeepers arrived in Sudan in April 2006. They are to stay in the country for about 5-6 years, with regular rotation of the peacekeeping contingent.

(ST)