Kirk: U.S. Troops Will Support Efforts In Libya
WASHINGTON (WBBM/CBS) -- U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) says U.S. forces will support, though not lead, efforts to rein in Muammar Qaddafi in Libya.
As WBBM Newsradio 780's John Cody reports, Kirk says there will be U.S. ground forces involved, but not on the ground in Libya.
"U.S. ground forces at the NATO bases in Italy – Aviano and Sigonella – will be fueling aircraft and providing support," Kirk said. "This looks like it will be a heavy, multinational effort, and even some Arab nations may participate – likely the airports of the Arab nation of Qatar."
Kirk says Qaddafi will try to negotiate a way to stay put in office, but says if momentum shifts back to the rebels – given NATO support – he doubts Qaddafi will be able to remain in power.
The Libyan government announced a cease-fire Friday in its fight with rebel forces, but reports by Al Jazeera say the cease-fire has not taken effect. Clashes between rebels and forces loyal to Qaddafi have continued, CBS News reports.
The United Nations Security Council voted Thursday to authorize a no-fly zone and "all necessary measures" to prevent the regime from striking its own people.
