Intense fighting in the western cities of Danane and Man between the army and new rebel groups underscores the continued volatility of the country. The U.S. Embassy in Abidjan is operating with a skeleton staff and all other government personnel have been ordered out of the country, including families of Embassy employees. Travel outside Abidjan is prohibited to all personnel unless authorized by the ambassador. The land route to Ghana is open but subject to lengthy delays because of roadblocks.
