Report 20190104A
Date
January 04, 2019
Administration
Donald TrumpLocation
GabonWas 4(a)(1) Triggered? (Hostilities/Imminent Hostilities)
No, as described in/inferred from report
Was 4(a)(2) Triggered? (Combat- Equipped Introduction)
Yes, described in/inferred from report
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: "to be in position to support the security of United States citizens, personnel, and diplomatic facilities in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo"; "in response to the possibility that violent demonstrations may occur in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in reaction to the December 30, 2018, elections there"
Domestic Legal Authority
Constitution (Art. II)Details: "This action was taken consistent with my responsibility to protect United States citizens both at home and abroad, and in furtherance of United States national security and foreign policy interests, pursuant to my constitutional authority to conduct United States foreign relations and as Commander in Chief and Chief Executive."
Claimed International Legal Basis
UnknownEstimated Scope/Duration
Mission-bound but indeterminate
Details: "Additional forces may deploy to Gabon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, or the Republic of the Congo, if necessary for these purposes. These deployed personnel will remain in the region until the security situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo becomes such that their presence is no longer needed."
Type of Enemy or Mission
Non-state actor Embassy protectionDetails: "violent demonstrations may occur"
Military Activity
Air operations Use of ground forcesDetails: "deployment of approximately 80 personnel... with appropriate combat equipment and supported by military aircraft."
US Casualties Reported
Unknown
Non-US Casualties Reported
Unknown
