Report 19970327A
Date
March 27, 1997
Administration
Bill Clinton (Second Term)Location
Gabon Republic of the CongoWas 4(a)(1) Triggered? (Hostilities/Imminent Hostilities)
No, as described in/inferred from report
Was 4(a)(2) Triggered? (Combat- Equipped Introduction)
Yes, stated or used terms in statute
Was 4(a)(3) Triggered? (Substantial Enlargement)
No, as described in/inferred from report
Joint/Coalition Mission
No
Article 51 Report to UN
Not applicable because no self-defense claim
Purpose/Mission
Protect US citizens, propertyDetails: "provide enhanced security for the more than 300 American private citizens, government employees, and selected third country nationals in Kinshasa"; "solely for the purpose of preparing to protect American citizens and property"
Domestic Legal Authority
Constitution (Art. II)Details: "I have taken this action pursuant to my constitutional authority to conduct U.S. foreign relations and as Commander in Chief and Chief Executive."
Claimed International Legal Basis
UnknownEstimated Scope/Duration
Mission-bound but indeterminate
Details: "United States forces will redeploy as soon as it is determined that an evacuation is not necessary or, if necessary, is completed."
Type of Enemy or Mission
Embassy protection Rescue/Evacuation of nationalsDetails: "potential for civil disorder and general unrest in Kinshasa"
Military Activity
Use of naval forces/vessels Use of ground forcesDetails: Deployment of "Joint Task Force Headquarters, fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, airport control and support equipment, and medical and security personnel and equipment. In addition, USS Nassau, with a Marine Battalion Landing Team and a helicopter squadron reinforced with fixed-wing AV–8 Harrier aircraft embarked, is moving into the area."
US Casualties Reported
Unknown
Non-US Casualties Reported
Unknown
