President Obama sends troops to South Sudan

July 14, 2016 (JUBA) – United States President Barrack Obama said 47 American soldiers have been deployed in South Sudan to protect its embassy and the staff.

“In response to the deteriorating security situation in South Sudan, I have ordered the deployment of additional U.S. Armed Forces personnel to South Sudan to support the security of U.S. personnel, and our embassy in Juba.,” the White House said in a letter to the Speaker for House of Representatives and Senate President.

The first of these additional personnel, approximately 47 individuals, reportedly arrived in the South Sudanese capital, Juba on 12 July, 2016, supported by military aircraft.

Although equipped for combat, these additional personnel are deployed for the purpose of protecting U.S. citizens and property,” the letter reads in part.

The US embassy in Juba evacuated non-essential staffers out of South Sudan, while South Sudanese working in the embassy were asked to stay away from the premises.

Fighting erupted between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar last week, leaving hundreds dead and thousands displaced. Both sides declared a ceasefire on Monday after President Kiir’s forces overran Machar’s base.

President Obama said the American soldiers will remain in the country until the security situation improve but added that more troops might be sent to the country if needed.

“Additional U.S. Armed Forces, including approximately 130 military personnel currently pre-positioned in Djibouti, are prepared to provide support, as necessary, for the security of U.S. citizens and property, including our embassy in South Sudan,” it stressed.

The US sent troops to Juba the onset of conflict in December 2013 to guard its embassy.

(ST)