Kofi Annan welcomes US Liberian deployment
The Secretary General of the United Nations has welcomed the decision of George Bush to despatch troops to Liberia.
The United States has been under increasing pressure from the UN and the world community to deploy peace keepers on the ground to prevent further blood shed.
The USA has strong historical connections to Liberia, which was in fact founded by freed American slaves.
Though George Bush has announced the dispatch of troops to the area, he is yet to give a commitment to the actual deployment of the troops, rather emphasising logistical support.
He has previously said that troops will not lead the peace keeping force, and will only assist the African nations in their efforts.
Bush has also said that he wants Charles Taylor to leave the country (he has been offered political exile in Nigeria) before he commits troops on the ground.
The UN though is hoping that the US will take on a greater commitment and role in the international force than it has yet indicated. They believe that troops on the ground are essential to prevent further bloodshed.
As the US announced its deployment, rebel commanders on the ground called a ceasefire after a week of desperate fighting around Monrovia. It is reported that they have instructed troops to hold positions, and only fire if attacked.
