US sends troops to South Sudan capital to protect citizens

In this Tuesday July 12, 2016 photo, people take shelter near the All Saints Church in Juba, South Sudan. Embassies and aid organizations in South Sudan were trying to evacuate staff from the capital, Juba, on Tuesday as a precarious calm settled over the city following several days of deadly clashes. (AP Photo) (The Associated Press)

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In this Tuesday July 12, 2016 photo, a woman sits with her child near a church in Juba, South Sudan. Embassies and aid organizations in South Sudan were trying to evacuate staff from the capital, Juba, on Tuesday as a precarious calm settled over the city following several days of deadly clashes. (AP Photo) (The Associated Press)

NAIROBI, Kenya – The U.S. military in Africa says it has sent 40 additional soldiers to South Sudan's capital, Juba, to help secure American personnel and facilities in the war-torn city.

Africom spokeswoman Cpt. Jennifer Dyrcz said the U.S. troops deployed at the request of the State Department, amid a tense cease-fire which has held since Monday night.

In five days of fighting in the capital President Salva Kiir's forces ousted those loyal to First Vice President Riek Machar from one of their bases. The fighting left hundreds dead in the capital and aid workers said bodies remain in the streets.

The U.S. Embassy in Juba said flights will be organized for all U.S. citizens wishing to leave South Sudan. The embassy is also evacuating non-essential staff.