US provides Puma Armoured Vehicles to Ivory Coast

The United States has strengthened its military ties with Côte d’Ivoire by approving the transfer of 12 M36 PUMA armored vehicles to the Ivorian Army.

Last May, the United States and the European Union (EU) pledged to support the country’s armed forces, with the EU by way of a €15 million Euro “assistance measure.

Also, the United States pledged $45 million in new funding to support the security and stability of West African countries facing regional threats, such as terrorism, piracy, and illicit trafficking.

The announcement was made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his visit to Cote d’Ivoire on 22 and 23 January, where he met with President Alassane Ouattara and discussed bilateral and regional issues.