The Spokesperson has the following in response to questions on the UN Mission in Mali today:

The Department of Peacekeeping Operations advises that MINUSMA is not taking part in the offensive operations. As part of its mandate for stabilisation and protection of civilians, MINUSMA is conducting operations in the Niger loop south of the river. Specifically, MINUSMA units are conducting patrols, maintaining contacts with the local population and showing a presence to deter any threats to civilians.

MINUSMA coordinates its operations closely with the other actors to ensure that efforts are complementary.

Malian and French forces are also conducting operations in Gao Region. This makes MINUSMA's presence south of the river particularly important to prevent a spillover of armed groups' activities into civilian areas which could threaten populations.