Next year US troops will go to as many as 35 African countries, according to media reports, where they will train local troops for any future threats from al-Qaeda linked groups.

The information has come from the US Department of Defense, whose source had said the Washington Post earlier this month that US troops would soon be en route to the nation of Mali in order to thwart the emerging threat of Islamic extremists.

According to the recent update, the mission of US troops to be sent overseas will be limited to training. Their engagement in battles is expected only after a corresponding order will be signed by the secretary of defense.

Among the countries mentioned in media reports where US troops will be heading are Libya, Sudan, Algeria and Niger, Kenya and Somalia.

Source: Voice of Russia