The United States maintained its commitment to the Philippines despite the recent statement of President Rodrigo Duterte that he wants American troops out of Mindanao.
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| Photo: globalnation.inquirer.net |
The president warned US troops in Mindanao that they are in danger of being kidnapped by terrorist group Abu Sayyaf.
US Department of State spokesperson John Kirby said that the US will not respond to the president's comments unless an official request is made.
"I’ve seen the comments. I’ve seen them in press reporting, and what I can tell you is that we’re not aware of any official communication by the Philippine Government to that effect and to seek that result. So we’re going to stay in touch with our counterparts in the Philippine Government," Kirby said in a press briefing on Monday.
Kirby added that the US shares the concern of Duterte about the safety of American troops in the Philippines.
Less than 200 US soldiers have been deployed in Zamboanga City to assist Philippine security forces in their campaign against terrorists.
Source: Philippine Star
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