Two Helicopters Collide Killing French Soldiers

At least 13 French soldiers have died after two military helicopters collided in Mali.

The accident happened on Monday during a combat operation against jihadist insurgents in the African country. 

Six soldiers and six officers were amongst the fatalities, officials confirmed.

"The president announces with deep sadness the death of 13 French troops in Mali on the evening of Nov. 25, in an accident between their two helicopters during a combat mission against jihadists", an official Elysée statement said.

French president Emmanuel Macron expressed "deep sadness" and hailed the sacrifice  of the men "who died in the difficult fight against terrorism in the Sahel".