U.N. agrees to send 3,100 more peacekeepers to Congo

The U.N. Security Council unanimously agreed Thursday to send 3,100 more peacekeeping troops to Congo, while rebels said they remained committed to a pullback from the front lines despite an army attack.

British Ambassador John Sawers said the 15-nation council wants to help contributing nations “as best we can in getting troops on the ground rapidly” once they decide to help out.

“Exactly how many weeks it will be, it’s not clear. But this is a matter of urgency,” Sawers said.

Countries have not worked out yet who will contribute the additional troops and police.
Several African nations such as Senegal, Kenya and Angola are among those that could contribute extra troops, council diplomats said, speaking on condition of anonymity because talks are still under way.