The town has since been recaptured by Malian troops with French aerial support.

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He said the U.S. is still considering a French request for U.S. aerial refueling support.

NPR: US Begins Transporting French Troops To Mali

Kim answers: US providing intel to French, looking into support with airlift and support with aerial refuelling, no US boots on ground.

BBC: Your questions to Kim Ghattas

One engine was called initially, but crews requested an aerial ladder platform, which requires a support vehicle, it added.

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The United States has also stepped up its involvement in the conflict by conducting aerial refueling missions on top of the intelligence and airlift support.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

The United States has also stepped up its involvement in the conflict by conducting aerial refueling missions on top of the intelligence and airlift support it was already providing.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

With his support, the Americans are wiping out Colombia's coca crop through aerial spraying at a pace unimaginable only months ago.

ECONOMIST: Outsiders should be doing more to help