Kouchner does not foresee France entering Chad combat

French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner said Monday that he does not foresee France's troops entering combat in Chad to support the besieged government. Kouchner said France does not intend to launch military operations in Chad despite a statement earlier Monday by the UN Security Council paving the way for Chadian allies to help repel a rebel offensive.

France has 1,400 troops based in Chad, a former colony. They have secured the airport in the capital city of N'Djamena and helped evacuate French and other travelers who want to leave. (AP)