Ground Operation in Libya Could Start in April Says Russian Intelligence
RHC
Moscow, March 26 (RHC) -- The international coalition force is planning a ground operation in Libya that could start in late April, RIA Novosti news agency reported quoting a high-ranking Russian intelligence service source.
The source said: “Information coming via different channels shows that NATO countries, with the active participation of Britain and the United States, are developing a plan for a ground operation on Libyan territory. From all indications, a ground operation will be launched if the alliance fails to force the Gaddafi regime to step down with air strikes and missile attacks.”
If the events in Libya follow this scenario, the ground operation could start “in late April-early May,” he added.
The United Nations Security Council imposed a no-fly zone over Libya on March 17, allowing -- in its words -- “all necessary measures” to protect civilians from Muammar Gaddafi’s attacks on rebel-held towns.
The operation to enforce the no-fly zone, named Odyssey Dawn, is being jointly conducted by 13 countries, including the United States, Britain and France.
Western warplanes have flown more than 300 sorties over the North African country and fired 162 Tomahawk missiles in the UN mission. Sources: RHC.
