A terror attack on a Malian army camp in Dioura, central Mali, has killed dozens of Malian soldiers and injured many others. The European Union extends its sincere condolences to the families and friends of the victims, as well as to the Malian government, and wishes the wounded a speedy recovery.

We pay tribute to the Malian security and armed forces, who acted with courage during this attack and risk their lives every day for the cause of peace and stability in their country. The perpetrators of this attack must be brought to justice as quickly as possible.

The European Union stands by Mali, along with the other members of the Sahel G5, MINUSMA, Operation Barkhane and the whole international community, in the fight against terrorism in the Sahel.

The European missions, EUTM and EUCAP Sahel Mali, are assisting the Malian security forces and authorities in the investigation into the attack. This tragic episode serves to highlight the importance of the European Union’s commitment to Mali, in particular its role in supporting the Malian government’s efforts to ensure peace and stability and to restore basic services for those living in the centre of the country.