Washington, DC — U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Chairman of its International Development Subcommittee, released the following statement regarding the President’s Libya update. 

“The President’s remarks tonight were welcome news that the international effort in Libya is working. The President clarified the U.S. military mission is not about regime change but helping to save the lives of innocent civilians from the wrath of Qaddafi and his forces. Continuing to focus on the humanitarian aspect of this conflict, while shifting the lead to our international partners is paramount.  The combination of continued military action, economic sanctions and international pressures will provide the support that the opposition needs in their fight.  I look forward to the shift to NATO leadership while understanding the unique capabilities that the U.S. military brings in areas such as electronic warfare and aerial surveillance.