At around 5:40 this morning, the MINUSMA compound in Kidal was targeted by a complex attack involving more than 30 rockets and shells. Once they had established from where the rockets were being fired, MINUSMA troops immediately returned fire 2 kilometers from the compound, at around 6 a.m.

According to preliminary reports, one MINUSMA soldier died and eight others were injured. The shelling also claimed victims among the citizens of Kidal outside the compound, killing two and injuring four.

MINUSMA is currently treating the wounded and has reinforced its security posture both in Kidal and at its other bases and facilities in Mali. Air and ground patrols are underway.

This attack comes at a time when progress has been made in the Algiers peace talks.

MINUSMA expresses its indignation at the cowardice of the perpetrators of the attack, which also affected innocent citizens.

MINUSMA strongly condemns these heinous terrorist acts, whose only goal is to thwart all the efforts currently underway to achieve lasting peace in Mali.

MINUSMA is determined to continue its support to the Malian authorities and to all those who advocate for peace.

MINUSMA extends its condolences to the bereaved families and wishes a speedy recovery to the wounded.