2 French Soldiers Killed in Gun Battle

At least two French soldiers were killed as French troops clashed with army mutineers who tried to approach the presidential palace in the capital, Bangui. The mutiny that began Nov. 15 has led to a standoff between mutineers, who occupy a small corner of Bangui, and government soldiers backed by French troops. The mutineers demand President Ange-Felix Patasse’s resignation, accusing him of ignoring their demands for wage increases. Patasse, who ousted a military dictator when he won 1993 elections, blames his predecessor for creating economic problems that make it impossible to raise army salaries. In Paris, the Defense Ministry condemned “the cowardly assassination” of the French troops and said France will continue to support the government against the rebels.