Nikola Krastev
Radio Free Europe
March 17, 2011
UNITED NATIONS — The United States, in a reversal of its previous position, now says the UN Security Council should consider more than a no-fly zone to protect civilians in Libya.
The remarks by U.S. Ambassador Susan Rice come as the council prepares to vote as early as today on a draft resolution that would authorize an air-exclusion zone over the North African country.
The discussions come amid a counteroffensive by forces loyal to Libyan ruler Muammar Qaddafi, who have dealt significant setbacks to opposition forces seeking to end his 41-year rule.
Rice’s statements mark a significant shift in the position of Washington, which had earlier reacted cautiously to calls for a no-fly zone from France, Britain, and the Arab League.
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