He was 84
Former US Secretary of State, Colin Powell, has died following complications from Covid-19.
He was 84, and fully vaccinated against the virus.
The Republican became the first black politician to hold the foreign policy position.
He was promoted to a four-star General in the US military in 1989.
General Powell played a key role in the response to the 9/11 terror attacks - and in making a case for the Iraq war.
His family made the announcement on his official Facebook page this afternoon.
Former US President George W. Bush, who appointed Powell as Secretary of State in his administration, has paid respects to his former colleague:
"Laura and I are deeply saddened by the death of Colin Powell. He was a great public servant, starting with his time as a soldier during Vietnam." - President George W. Bush
— George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) October 18, 2021
Read the full statement: https://t.co/kSlMbGelOm
