Tage Dennis Gyllenspore, Force Commander of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), expressed pride in the Mission’s accomplishments – including the recent deployment of a reconstituted and integrated national army and the fielding of its first echelon. […]
Describing adaptation to Mali’s evolving situation as crucial, he said efforts to adapt MINUSMA’s mandate and enhance performance have already begun. The focus is on striking a proper balance between ends, ways and means. Underlining the importance of the Mission’s proactive posture – characterized by mobility, flexibility and agility – he outlined several best practices that have helped troops build confidence, enhance security and protect populations. However, such operations require means, including additional utility and armed helicopter units and resources.
Noting that the mindset of MINUSMA’s peacekeepers must also adapt, he stressed that the force is not, nor will it ever be, a counter-terrorism unit. However, it will take immediate and decisive action to protect civilians, regardless of who the perpetrator is. As such, the Mission will employ a mobile task force with a range of capacities and the ability to quickly assembly in an ad hoc manner. Outlining ongoing efforts to improve the peacekeepers’ safety, he noted that MINUSMA troops are continuously targeted by explosive devices and indirect fire. Six troops were lost in May, including two who succumbed to the effects of COVID-19, he said. Läs protokollet