Obama Authorizes Military Aid to France for Counter-Terrorism Efforts

iStock/Thinkstock(WASHINGTON) — President Obama has authorized up to $10 million in military assistance to France to assist the country in its counter-terrorism efforts in Chad, Mali and Niger.

In a memorandum Monday, Obama said, “I hereby determine that an unforeseen emergency exists that requires immediate military assistance to France in its efforts to secure Mali, Niger, and Chad from terrorists and violent extremists.”

The president noted that these requirements “cannot be met under the authority of the Arms Export Control Act or any other provision of law.”

“I, therefore, direct the drawdown of up to $10 million in defense services of the Department of Defense for these purposes and under the authorities of section 506(a)(1) of the Act,” he continued.


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