Mali: a French soldier, Master Corporal Maxime Blasco, killed in action

France lost a 51st soldier in Mali.

This Friday, Master Corporal Maxime Blasco died in a clash with a terrorist group.

"It is with a particularly strong emotion that the President of the Republic learned of the death in operation of the corporal-master Maxime Blasco of the 7th battalion of alpine hunters of Varces", indicated the Elysee in a press release.

On June 18, he was decorated for the exceptional value of his services.

The Minister of the Armed Forces Florence Parly sent "her condolences to the family, relatives and brothers in arms of Master Corporal Maxime Blasco".

Master Corporal Maxime Blasco died for France during combat action against a terrorist group in Mali.

I bow to his courage, his deep commitment to the service of our country.

My condolences to his family, to his brothers in arms, to our bereaved armies.

- Florence Parly (@florence_parly) September 24, 2021

Maxime Blasco died during a reconnaissance and harassment operation conducted by the Barkhane Force in the Malian Gourma, south-east of N'Daki, in the Gossi region, near the border between Mali and the Burkina Faso.

The commando group was taken at close range by the armed terrorist group.

“During this action, Master Corporal Maxime Blasco was hit by a sniper, which was neutralized by the commandos.

Very seriously injured, Master Corporal Maxime Blasco quickly succumbed to his injuries, ”indicates the General Staff of the Armies.

The President of the Republic, for his part, reaffirmed France's determination in its fight against terrorism.