US Calls for Reinforcement of UN Peacekeeping Force in Ivory Coast

The United States is discussing with France and West African states the possibility of augmenting the UN peacekeeping force in Ivory Coast, amidst a persistent political crisis. Ivory Coast President Laurent Gbagbo continues to resist calls to step down in favor of internationally recognized winner Alassane Ouattara, amid reports of human rights abuses and intimidation of opposition members. The US is considering additional financial sanctions against Gbagbo's government to cut off funding.

Key Takeaways:

• The US is discussing with France and ECOWAS member states the possibility of sending more troops to Ivory Coast to reinforce the UN peacekeeping force.
• The UN Security Council has extended the mandate of the force, despite Gbagbo's demand for its withdrawal.
• State Department officials are concerned that militiamen loyal to Gbagbo might try to evict the peacekeepers or spark renewed civil warfare.
• The US has joined the European Union in imposing travel sanctions on Gbagbo and close associates, with additional financial sanctions under active consideration.
• The UN and international human rights organizations are documenting widespread human rights abuses in Ivory Coast.
• Foreign monitors and the country's own electoral commission have certified the outcome of the November 28th presidential election, rejecting Gbagbo's call for a re-examination.

Statistics:

• 10,000: The number of UN troops deployed in Ivory Coast since civil warfare began nearly a decade ago.
• 1,000: The number of French troops supplementing the UN force in Ivory Coast.
• November 28th: The date of the presidential election in Ivory Coast, which Alassane Ouattara won but Laurent Gbagbo continues to dispute.

Sources:

• Voice of America (VOA)
• United Nations (UN)
• State Department (via P.J. Crowley, State Department Spokesman)
• European Union

Note: All sources and statistics are cited exactly as they appear in the original text.