Does Libya mission need ground troops after all?
cnn / Paul Armstrong, CNN
20-Apr-2011


CNN) -- The deployment of foreign troops on the ground in Libya could boost the NATO-led mission to protect civilians, though opponents of such a scenario from within the coalition may be difficult to convince, leading analysts say.

On Tuesday the European Union revealed that it would be prepared to launch a military operation for humanitarian assistance in the war-torn North African country if it is supported by the United Nations.

The mission, featuring "definitely less than 1,000" troops, would "contribute to the safe movement and evacuation of displaced persons" and support humanitarian agencies in their activities, The Council of the European Union said in a statement.

Separately, Britain, France and Italy also confirmed they would be sending military officers to Libya to advise the rebels, though French Defense Minister Gérard Longuet ruled out sending ground troops to fight alongside them.

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