Русская версияFrench President Nicolas Sarkozy will reassure troops of France's
support after the French contingent suffered its worst losses since
the US-led invasion in Afghanistan began in 2001.
"My decision remains firm.
France is committed to continue the
fight against terrorism, for democracy and freedom. The issue is
just," Sarkozy said.
Afghan officials reported that 10 French soldiers were killed in a
two-day battle with Taliban insurgents in the Surobi district of
the Kabul province. Another 21 were reporteldy wounded, the French
president's office said on Tuesday, Aug. 19.
Taliban insurgents ambushed the French reconnaissance patrol from
three sides on Monday, Reuters news agency reported. France used
air support to extract the units from the ambush, the French
government said.
Taliban attacks increasing
Only 12 French troops had previously been killed in Afghanistan.
France has 1,670 troops in the country as part of NATO'S
International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). Sarkozy agreed to
send an additional 700 soldiers to the region this year after the
US asked for more support in its effort to curb Taliban violence.
Taliban fighters have increased attacks in the provinces bordering
Kabul in recent months.
(Deutsche Welle)
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