Clinton, in Libya on unannounced trip, offers new US aid to former rebels
TRIPOLI, Libya — The Obama administration offered millions of dollars in new aid to Libya as Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton encouraged the country’s unsteady new leadership to commit to a democratic future free of retribution, and acknowledged in unusually blunt terms that the United States would like to see former dictator Moammar Gadhafi dead.
“We hope he can be captured or killed soon so that you don’t have to fear him any longer,”tiffany outlet Clinton told students and others at a town hall-style gathering in the capital city.
Until now, the U.S. has generally avoided saying that Gadhafi should be killed.
U.S. officials usually say they want to see him brought to justice, something Clinton also said during her daylong visit.
“I am proud to stand here on the soil of a free Libya,” Clinton said. “The United States was proud to stand for you in your fight for freedom and we will continue to stand with you as you continue this journey.”
She met with the leader of Libya’s Transitional National Council, Mahmoud Jibril, and offered about $11 million in additional aid. The fresh aid boosts Washington’s contribution since the uprising against Gadhafi began in February to roughly $135 million.
The new aid package includes medical aid for wounded fighters and additional assistance to secure weaponry that many fear could fall into the hands of terrorists. Aides said the money is meant partly as a pledge to ongoing U.S. support during what will be a difficult passage to free elections and a new government after four decades of dictatorship.
“Now the hard part begins,” Clinton said, heading into a meeting with the transitional leaders.
Clinton referred several times to the importance of including all factions in a future democratic government, a reference to fears among Libyans that those with ties to the Gadhafi regime will be punished.
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