US thanks Colombia for release of American captive

The US extended its gratitude to the government of Colombia on Sunday after it helped free an American citizen held by the Revolutionary Armed Forces, known as FARC, since June 20. Kevin Scott Sutay, a former marine, was reportedly backpacking in a rebel-held area when he was captured. "We welcome the release today of Kevin Scott Sutay from captivity at the hands of the FARC," said Secretary of State John Kerry in a statement. "The United States is profoundly grateful to the Government of Colombia and commends its tireless efforts to secure his release. We offer special thanks to President Juan Manuel Santos for his assistance," he added. Kerry also said he "appreciated the contributions" of the representatives from the governments of Cuba and Norway, as well as the International Committee of the Red Cross, for receiving Sutay on Sunday morning after working toward his release. Reverend Jesse Jackson, a civil rights campaigner who has been advocating for Sutay's freedom, was also thanked. The US assisted the Colombian government in its fight against the rebels for some 10 years. Washington considers the FARC a terrorist group.