Latest reports showed that Mali's rebel groups had controlled the northern half of the country and are heading south. They have captured the strategic city of Konna, a central town of 50,000 people some 700 km northeast of capital Bamako, putting Mali sovereignty at risk.
The situation had caused UN's grave concern about the military movements of rebel groups along the frontline in northern Mali.
The Security Council met on Thursday, calling on member states to "assist the settlement of the crisis and, in particular, to provide assistance to the Malian Defense and Security Forces in order to reduce the threat posed by terrorist organizations and associated groups."
The French president said UN Security Council resolutions meant France's action is in accordance with international laws. He confirmed that the French troops' engagement in the military operation in Mali "will last as long as necessary."
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