In late June 1994 France launched "Opération Turquoise", a UN-mandated mission to create safe humanitarian areas for displaced persons, refugees, and civilians in danger. From bases in the Zairian cities of Goma and Bukavu, the French entered south-western Rwanda and established the "Turquoise" zone, within the Cyangugu–Kibuye–Gikongoro triangle, an area occupying approximately a fifth of Rwanda. Radio France International estimates that "Turquoise" saved around 15,000 lives, but with the genocide coming to an end and the RPF's ascendancy, many Rwandans interpreted "Turquoise" as a mission to protect Hutu from the RPF, including some who had participated in the genocide. The French remained hostile to the RPF and their presence held up the RPF's advance in the south-west of the country. "Opération Turquoise" remained in Rwanda until 21 August 1994.