Obama, Clinton Condemn Uganda Bombing, Offer Help
The Obama administration on Monday condemned the bombings responsible for killing at least 64 people in Uganda Sunday night.
President Obama "is deeply saddened by the loss of life resulting from these deplorable and cowardly attacks, and sends his condolences to the people of Uganda and the loved ones of those who have been killed or injured," a White House spokesman said. "The United States is ready to provide any assistance requested by the Ugandan government."
The explosions Sunday occurred at a rugby club and an Ethiopian restaurant in Kampala, Uganda, where people were watching the World Cup. An American worker was reportedly killed in the blasts, and several other Americans were wounded.
Police suspect an al Qaeda-linked Somali militant group, al-Shabab, was responsible for the attacks, but White House officials are not yet ready to level blame on al-Shabab, CBS News White House Correspondent Mark Knoller reports. The president is being regularly updated on the situation, and the White House is in contact with the embassy in Kampala, as well as the FBI regarding requests for assistance from the Ugandan government.
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton released a statement joining the president in condemning the attacks and offering assistance to Uganda.
"I join President Obama in strongly condemning today's attacks in Kampala, Uganda targeting innocent spectators watching the World Cup final," she said. "At this tragic moment, the United States stands with Uganda. We have a long-standing, close friendship with the people and government of Uganda and will work with them to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice."
