US military bans Paris travel for DOD personnel after attacks

The U.S. military has banned "unofficial" travel to Paris for all Defense Department personnel in the wake of Friday's terror attacks.

The United States European Command said in a written statement that military personnel and DOD civilian employees, among others, will not be allowed to visit within a 50-kilometer (about 31 miles) radius of Paris as part of any unofficial travel such as leave.

The ban also extends to contractors and family members. U.S. European Command described the ban as a precautionary measure after the string of terrorist attacks on Friday, and part of an effort to minimize tourist traffic at France's borders.

“My deepest sympathies go out to the people of Paris and France, and all those impacted by these horrific terror attacks,” said Air Force Gen. Philip M. Breedlove, commander of EUCOM and Supreme Allied Commander, Europe, in a statement released Saturday, according to the Army Times. “I have contacted the French chief of defense and offered to assist in any way our military can …”

The ban does not apply to military personnel on assignment at diplomatic posts in France, or those who may have commercial airline connections in France.

Anyone requesting official travel or emergency leave for Paris and elsewhere in France would have to seek special permission, according to the statement.