Fighting is still intense around the Liberian capital, Monrovia, after a rebel ceasefire again failed to materialise.
Hundreds have died in violent shelling and thousands more are being threatened by a spiralling humanitarian disaster.
The US, which has historical ties to Liberia, has put a draft resolution before the United Nations to send an international force to the country.
Should international troops go in to Liberia or stay out? Is the US obliged to intervene? Or is this a purely African problem that should be dealt with by the regional ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) peace-keeping force?
The following comments reflect the balance of views we have received:
How do you expect the US and her allies to intervene personally in the Liberian conflict when they are directly responsible for the on going crisis?
Alfred Gayflor, Spain
Of course Liberia needs the help of an international intervention force. Its a shame unto America and in particular President Bush to have turned deaf ears to the cry for help coming from their "former slaves". Of course there is no oil which is strategic to US interests.
Owusu Akwasi,
Germany
Liberia right now need immediate deployment of multinational peace keeping force to help stop the violent and killing of innocent Liberian by both so call Government troop and rebel group. They should both be brought before the human right court for the killing of innocent children, women, old people and helpless civilian.
Mariam Kaba-Marshall,
Liberia
President Bush needs to show his last visit to Africa was not all about great speeches, warm handshakes and winning the votes of African Americans back home. I think there is no better time than now to demonstrate some commitment to the cause of Africa especially those descendents of slaves now suffering a second tragedy.
Anonymous
I think that any time a person or group of higher power can help the suffering of individuals, then it is their duty as a human being to try and help. America is clearly the superpower in the world and we should help those suffering in Liberia by the chaos. Similarly, the war in Iraq was not just about weapons of mass destruction. We saved the innocent Iraqi people from decades of cruel and unusual punishment by a sadistic leader.
Ryan, U.S.
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Liberia once aided the US and now it is payback time
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The intervention of the US Government in the Liberian crisis will put to an end once and for all the suffering the Liberian people.
Liberia once aided the US and now it is payback time, but the problem here is the US Government is not willing to sacrifice any of their soldiers for Liberia, so it is about time now that we Liberians solved our own problem and forget about the international community. We need to stop killing one another and then others will come to help. We saw that happen in Sierra Leone with the British and in Ivory Coast with the French and no one again is willing to risk the life of their soldiers until we decide to say enough is enough.
Boima, US
To those Europeans who would question American veracity with regards to justice and the fight for liberty, I ask you when you have bled on foreign shores for someone else? When have you sent your best and brightest to the slaughter just to guarantee some other people's freedom? We have saved the world from itself time and time again. We have been your Arsenal. We have been your deliverer. We have rebuilt you after devastation. You, Europe and the world, have in return not shown gratitude. You have instead scorned us for our efforts. Why not call on your precious United Nations to solve the crisis? Because you know damn well that they are as impotent as you are!
Nathan Hale, USA
Its rather interesting that in Iraq where US intervention was questionable and the supporting reasons lacking credibility, the Iraqis hardly needed to request intervention. However, where cries can be clearly heard with good reason from the Liberians and almost everyone but the US, little action is being taken. It appears the US aim is to be unilateral regardless of the outcome. Either that or the Liberians will need to discover oil.
Eka, UK
Where is the UN? I am so sick of the world relying on the US to fix its problems. Why don't France and all those others who speak so fervently about the dangers of a unipolar world, prove that they can handle this crisis? I feel sorry for the Liberians, but this civil war is an issue for the international community. We are not Gods. The US cannot handle everything.
Stacey, USA
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Every day that passes will cost more civilian lives
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Liberia, as with all African nations struggling with violence and famine, is an international problem.
I do feel that the US is honour bound to lead a peace keeping mission there due to our history with the country. It is absurd for Bush to wait until Taylor steps down as he has amply demonstrated his criminal nature and cannot be reasoned with. Every day that passes will cost more civilian lives. Just because the fighting is not in our backyard does not make it any less of a reality.
Kevin Southey,
USA
The USA owes nothing to Liberia. Africa is potentially a bottomless pit for our money and American lives. The same people who complain about our inaction in Liberia are the same people who complained about our action in Iraq. They are the same people who will get great joy when we sink into the African bottomless pit. The people who call for the UN to fix the problem have not gotten the message, the UN is on life support at best. The UN is not capable of doing anything other than distributing food. If saving Liberians becomes in the national interest of the USA, I might change my mind but I do not expect there is much US interest in mud huts.
Mike, USA
What role should the US have in Liberia? The answer is very simple - one definitely befitting a world super-power with a moral conscience. So far, the US, especially under this (Bush) administration, which incidentally came to power riding the back of the so-called Christian Right (Conservatives), and its Western allies, have failed miserably in this regard.
Yet, they talk about promoting human rights, freedom and democracy (as in Iraq today). The naked or raw truth is that brutal capitalist expansion drives the US and its allies, and none of the above. Else, why would they sit on the sidelines while Liberians continue to be massacred helplessly? The US cannot shrink from its responsibilities if it is to remain the world's dominant super-power. And so, the nagging Liberian crises should present the US with a rare opportunity for a change.
James W. Harris (Liberian Journalist), USA
We are wasting precious time and lives waiting for the US to send peacekeeping forces into Liberia. Liberia, like much of Africa, has no oil, neither does it have any strategic importance to America. With US troops being killed daily in Iraq, President Bush will not even attempt to sell the idea of sending troops to Liberia, not the least when presidential elections in America are just around the corner. We Africans must mobilize whatever resources we have to help our brothers and sisters in Liberia. Each day that we delay leads to more people being killed and the humanitarian crisis worsening.
Kwaku Antwi-Boasiako,
Leicester, UK
Yes, the response from the majority of people from the US was just what everyone expects. Why doesn't the UN intervene? That is what the UN was trying to do in Iraq before the Bush decided to push everyone else aside and run into Iraq to "liberate the Iraqi people". Give us a break! The US motives are so very transparent. I hope that the Liberians are able to sort out their difficulties and forget the US.
Phoebe, Trinidad and Tobago
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The suffering is calling us to action
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If we are "damned if we do, damned if we don't" then let us do. Let us help. Since when have we feared what the world thinks? We should fear what God thinks if we ignore the pleas, if we turn our backs to suffering. I do not pretend to know the motives of all Americans in supporting the Iraq war - indeed I question some. For me, upon learning of the human rights violations I knew we needed to help. Again, the suffering is calling us to action. Iraq can speak now and they want us to leave. Let's give them respect and trust that they can establish a democracy. And, if we need to we can return to help again. Let's leave Iraq and help Liberia. Now.
Sarah, USA
Today the US calls Liberia a "little country of no strategic interest." This "little country" was a strong ally of the US all through the last century. During WWII the US military used the seaport and airport in Liberia for ship repair and plane refuelling stations, respectively; One of the 3 Omega Towers that was the basis of global communications before satellite technology is still in Monrovia. Monrovia was also the CIA HQ for clandestine activities in Africa, the Firestone Rubber Company plantation (so vital until synthetic rubber became readily available)is also in Liberia. This "little country of no strategic interest" is a founding member of the UN, the OAU (now AU), the non-aligned movement, ECOWAS, etc, organizations in which it has always defended American positions without fail.
It may be that America thinks today that we are insignificant, but if the past is a determinant of the future, tomorrow America will need us again. Today, they have an opportunity to help us, let them do so - if not for old time's sake, we will owe them a debt of gratitude for tomorrow's sake.
Sam G. Kpahn, Mpls, USA
What a surprise, nobody has anything negative to say about the UN! They've ignored calls by all human rights groups to issue a resolution on Liberia, but it's all America's fault. It's past time for all the UN members to stand up and take accountability, including America. There seems to be an unwritten rule that says you can't question the UN, which is the very reason why these issues exist. As long as the world continues to look away from any kind of UN blame, the more of these situations we'll see. There's no law that says the UN can't learn from its mistakes.
Brendan McGarvey, USA
The US should do something. The Liberian people are in desperate need of help. After all, the Liberians are human beings too. People are dying daily and no-one seems to care. This is a cry for help. Do something now!!
Zafira (Liberian), Spain
I see no reason why the US has delayed to help the situation in Liberia considering the fact that Iraq was not spared during their raid against terrorism. The war in Liberia is more than terrorist activism, and should as a matter of urgency be attended to just to save the lives of the innocent ones.
Evogor Samuel,
Nigeria
With the worsening humanitarian crisis, it is in the best interests of innocent civilians being killed daily that we appeal to the US to step in and help. They can hand over to the ECOWAS force after a peace agreement is in effect.
Andrew Young, Ghana
I think US should take part in the Liberia war because America and Liberia are brothers and sister since form day one. I am kindly asking for your help because right now I have my family there and haven't seen them for the pass five years. Every day I wake up pray to God to help people left behind and every time I see the war it breaks my heart. Please America help your sister Liberia she needs help form you right now and I hope you help.
Antie L Vongor, Liberia
The one way to get American attention on Liberia would be if Ghaddafi of Libya (a so-called champion of African unity) would offer to send troops. Imagine how THAT would be treated in the US!
Alan, Poland
I think it is the time for the US to play a major role in the Liberia crisis to bring this madness to an end once and for all. In this way, the US will be helping to stop the suffering or the ordinary people.
Nathan Kpannah, Liberia
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The US should stay away from Liberia
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The US should stay away from Liberia and leave the issue of restoring peace and security to the Liberians first and foremost and to Africans secondly. The US and other nations could only come in when the two have failed to take charge of the situation. West Africans have made it clear that they are sending ECOMOG into the area and the African Union have also shown interest in putting to end the chaos in Monrovia. Charles Taylor and others like him have a tendency of allowing their people to suffer and then hide in the name of donors not doing much to save or improve the situation. Africans have also relied much on the donor world to correct the mess they make of their lives and countries. Who says if the US moves in Liberia the Liberians would stop their bitter hatred for one another? The world should not force them to appreciate one another. Let Liberians first sit down on the table of brotherhood and resolve their hatred.
Mthoniswa Banda,
Zambia
An invader is an invader, regardless of peace and so-called democracy. The US need to find some one like Karzai or Chalabi for Liberia.
Wahid,
Afghanistan
As an American I am personally appalled at the lack of involvement that we have shown a nation with strong historic ties and founded by Americans. How can President Bush send troops to Afghanistan, Iraq, and other countries claiming the desire to save lives and stabilize areas and then turn a blind eye and deaf ears to pleas from Liberia?
Christopher,
USA
Historic ties to Liberia? From that perspective, Russia should protect Scandinavia; England should help Australia; France should help the US, Spain should be there for Mexico; the remnants of the Ottoman Empire should be there for Hungary; and on and on. Here's a novel idea: how about if the person with the gun just doesn't pull the trigger? How about if we all help eachother?
Harry,
USA
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History is something America should take pride in
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The US has interests in unstable countries because we rely upon other nation-states' stability to guard against a country becoming a breeding ground for terrorists or brutal regimes. Americans think because it is thousands of miles away, it doesn't affect their lives. Freed American slaves founded Liberia. History is something America should take pride in, not find it necessary to spin. Our actions today constitute the history of tomorrow. We should go in without question. We may have been able to contain Rwanda, and we didn't. America should not be as egocentric as Americans.
Becky, USA
As Africans, we must take control of our issues and allow only support from the West, but for this to happen we must change our attitudes starting from the leaders and down to the people. Until this happens the west will never take us seriously. Our issues are not poverty and instability as the world perceives, the issues are disorganization, lack of patriotism, and lack of conviction. When we view Africa as a precious asset then we will treat her with respect and dignity as the West treats their own.
Zeh, Cameroon, U.S
Funny how America thinks they have a right in the Middle East, where they're not wanted, but don't have any right going to a place crying for their help. I have been in the States since 1987 because of civil unrest in my Country (Liberia). 16 years later, it's still bad! The US should definitely intervene. Their troops are dropping like flies in Iraq, and still they continue to fight, yet they keep comparing Liberia to Somalia. The two countries are nothing alike. Liberians want them there. There will always be casualties at war. This time, it'll be for a good cause.. a humanitarian act, not fighting for OIL!!! Only God can save our Country! I pray that America becomes an instrument of the Lord in this Humanitarian Act so that America will continue to be a blessed and prosperous Nation.
Yassah Kamarah, United States
The USA as well as the whole international community should be involved in bringing peace. If we allow this tragedy to continue and escalate we should all feel responsible for the consequences. Both the UN and other West African states have shown leadership but lack the resources to improve the situation without our commitment.
Roy Hunt,
Canada
I believe that America does have a responsibility to intervene as part of a coalition of countries. As the worlds most capable military the US should be involved. This is an example of where we can do what is needed for no other reason than it is the right thing to do. The US should have sent troops to Liberia when there was a ceasefire but President Bush was indecisive and missed a golden opportunity. Now, it would be much harder for our troops and everyone else involved but that is the cost of freedom and democracy right Mr. Bush?
Jeff, Chicago, USA
America should understand that no other country, enjoys the benefit that America gets in Liberia, like rubber, plantation.
Njoku Chinedu,
Nigeria
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Since when are the US the international police force?
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I agree with the majority of your writers this morning that the U.S should NOT intervene in Liberia. My goodness, since when are the US the international police force and why should their young people put their lives on the line for yet another war ravaged country? The answer lies with the Liberians themselves and they should be allowed to grow and develop at their own pace..
Kay Davidson,
Canada
Most of the comments from US citizens sicken me. The great, almighty and righteous nation has a chance to do some genuine and unselfish good in the world. These Americans ask "why us?" The simple answer is because the US is the only nation that can, the only nation with sufficient military resources to do so. Why not do something because it is a good thing to do, because thousands of lives will be better for it. But then there is no oil in Liberia, no massive reconstruction contracts to be given out, no scores to be settled.
Richard, UK
America released Charles Taylor in 1989 to oust Samuel Doe. Now they are ordering Charles Taylor out and not wanting to get involved directly. If they are not willing to help us in time of need, then they shouldn't have a say in our affairs. America has a greater responsibility to Liberia than any other western power because this is a country it helped to create. The collapse of Liberia is a shame to America.
Mewon, Liberian in Morocco
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The US is only interested in protecting its own interests
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I read many comments posted by Americans and they just confirm what many people around the world are thinking. The US is only interested in protecting its own interests. Iraq has oil which they desperately need so they send 150,000 troops to replace the "evil regime", while ignoring the worlds cry for a diplomatic solution. Now they have a responsibility towards the world to do their part in the peacekeeping process in Africa and there going to opt for the diplomatic way out.
Frank, Belgium
The United States bears no responsibility towards Liberia, and should not intervene. Those who are screaming for the US to go in immediately, would be the first to complain when things went to hell, and civilians started to die in clashes involving US troops. We would once again be referred to as imperialist occupiers and Nazis. The US populace is highly suspicious right now of the international community; we basically don't trust you to do what is right or to act honestly. We are hesitant to go into Liberia precisely because we know you will turn on us. Now why don't you lie in the bed you've made.
Scott Gebhardt, USA
I am also a Liberian and my entire family live in Liberia but it pains me greatly to see Liberian putting their hope and trust in man (America).All the time they have spend calling on America to save them, they should have use it asking the Almighty God to save their land or have they forgotten the words in the National Anthem that says "by God's command! A home of glorious Liberty, by God command!" Liberians: only God can save us.
Victoria, Liberia
The United States should absolutely not send troops into Liberia. Involving our overly worked military in another open ended deployment would be terrible for our troops morale and just plain stupid. Frankly, I wish the Europeans would keep their opinions to themselves. First, they are unwilling to help us when we ask for it. Then they criticize us as imperialistic and bellicose. Now they want us to put American lives in harm's way when their are no clear objectives. Whether or not to deploy American forces is a decision for Americans and Americans only. Stay out of Liberia, and while we're at it, bring our boys home from the Balkans as well.
Latrelle,
USA
The US should send troops but at the forefront should be diplomatic attempts to resolve the fighting into a cease fire first. Maybe if we can get talks that would result in a cease fire, then the peace keepers could begin to establish order and rebuild Liberia. This would hopefully result in fewer civilian casualties and fewer deaths all around.
Sam Casey, USA
I would just like to asked the USA, to please see reason to deploy troops in Liberia as the crisis in indeed worsening... what more do they want to see happen before their intervention... as they have done in Iraq, I think they have more obligations to Liberia.. so please Mr. Bush do something and save Liberia...
M. F. Sonnie,
Liberian, presently abroad
The US should have a supporting role in Liberia to avoid usurping ECOWAS and AU's lead role. It is ECOWAS and AU's responsibility to act now to avert the creeping human disaster in Liberia by sending in the African peace keepers. They must also muster international community's political and logistical support for the peace keepers within the framework of the UN.
Mrs. Tambajang Fatoumata Jallow,
Gambia
No one but the UN should determine what needs to be done. Any time foreign troops are deployed in any country it must be under UN flag. Otherwise it is illegal occupation.
Chandra, US
The US has no obligation to Liberia and I don't think they are hesitating to intervene. I think is the US just want Taylor out and that is the best thought that any one should have for Liberia now.
Ousting of Taylor is the only solution. US should not allow Nigeria to go to Liberia or they will sell out to Taylor.
Sylvester Suaray, Sierra Leone
When the most of the world, the majority at the UN is against the US invading a sovereign country the US goes for it anyway.
When everybody wants the US to help (which would require 1 percent of the commitment that was made for Iraq), they ignore the call despite the US recent moral high-grounds. I guess Liberia doesn't have any natural resources to secure help from the States; they are free ... to die.
Francois, Japan
Why should the US intervene in this crisis? Where is Ecowas, the African Union, where is Nigeria and South Africa the continent's superpowers. It's time that Africans stop depending on International intervention to solve the problems that they have created. The situation across Africa is why I support colonel Ghaddafi's vision to create a rapid reaction force comprising of soldiers from various countries within the African Union and under the auspices of the African Union heavily armed and well trained to intervene across the continent to stop rebel insurrection either brutally or peacefully.
Rich, USA
Since the events in Liberia are in direct violation of General Assembly resolution 217 A (III). "Universal Declaration of Human Rights." 10 December 1948, the matter should be brought before the UN Security Council which then has the responsibility to ask for troops from UN member nations. This would be a great opportunity for the US to follow the UN Security Councils lead.
Louise,
Sydney, Australia
The US should be involved, long since. Perhaps if we had, less blood would have been shed. It wouldn't hurt our international image either. Mr. Bush needs to commit our troops. It's no longer a peacekeeping issue. People are dying and they're blaming us.
J, Lee, US
It's obvious that what Liberia needs is foreign intervention, so why doesn't ECOWAS and the AU do something before the situation further deteriorates in complete anarchy. Are they waiting for another Rwanda-like tragedy to occur before they react?
Chikeka,
Nigeria
The international community can never be trusted to ever intervene especially Bush and Blaire where their interest isn't. Bush and his copycat - Blaire are wicked and greedy, only seeking oily wealth. America is no longer worth her intervention. Even if she comes in now when thousands of lives that should been saved are gone, she can never be commended. America has lost her respect and credibility.
James,
Liberia
How would the US committing troops to Liberia be any different than us sending troops to Vietnam to defend the south? And wouldn't the left wing vilify us here again?
Let Liberia solve its own problems.
JR,
USA
To my belief, the US should take a stand right now in the crisis going on and see to it that peace prevail in Liberia because we are looking at them as big brother.
Emmett Sumo, LIBERIA
The US should not have a role in Liberia, but it would seem to me the world has a role in Liberia if anyone does. Let's hear it from the world? And the silence is deafening.
Joel E. Wischkaemper, USA
The US have already contributed in guns and funds to this ghastly horror flick..."Liberia Commits Suicide" why should they want to end it now? Let's just hesitate a little longer and enjoy the movie.
Lizbeth, Liberian/Georgia
Sure. America can fix anything with a few good men and a handy stack of weapons. Take Iraq, for example... uh, er, maybe that's not such a good one. Perhaps Vietnam? Hmmm. I seem to be running short of ideas on this one.
Russ Wollman, USA
Many people believe that peace will just happen upon arrival of 'peacekeeping' forces. The deployment of US forces has the potential of killing many Liberian nationals, as well as incurring casualties of their own. It can easily turn into another Somalia, where citizens turn on American troops, hundreds die, and the US pulls out with nothing achieved but a new resentment of American force.
Steve, USA
I find it most amusing that some of the people in Europe who are usually the first to accuse the US of "wild cowboy behaviour" are precisely the ones who want US intervention in Liberia. Where are the French, who are usually quick to act in Africa, whether the country in question is a former colony of theirs or not?
Patrick Moore, Czech Republic
USA should have sent troops weeks ago. US has forgotten its role and responsibility in Africa and especially in/to Liberia.
Ernest Jones, USA
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The US only care for her embassy but not the country in which it is located
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The US cannot play any vital role because she is the main fuel in that war. When it was proposed that a peace monitoring group be sent to the border between Liberia and Guinea, it was down played because the US had her hand in the war. The US only care for her embassy but not the country in which it is located. The best solution is for ECOWAS to try in her weak way by coming to the rescue of Liberia.
Morlu Johnson, Liberia
How ironic that many want to tie the US to Liberia as justification for the US to intervene. Liberia is no more tied to America than Iraq, where the US propped up Hussein. The same people complaining about the US going into Iraq are demanding we go into Liberia. Take a look at the hypocrisy displayed throughout Europe.
C.S. Pobieglo, Anchorage, USA
Liberia was not founded by freed slaves- but by such important men of the US such as the 4th president Munroe, Francis Scott Key (The Star Spangle Banner author) and Daniel Webster. These "great" men for whatever reason thought that black people could not fit into "real American society" and raised funds to send blacks back to their rightful country.
They charted a boat and sent some freed slaves over who didn't even know how to farm and of course at least half of them died. The other half bowed down to the American gods, named their capital MUNROVIA (after this prestigious president), and proceeded to oppress the other 95% of the population just as they were oppressed in the US. We Americans made this mess; we've got to clean it up.
Pamela,
Germany
I am an American of military age. Why should the world require me to spill my blood when Europe chooses to vacation in San Tropez. I've not heard of Russian or Chinese peacekeepers stationed anywhere. Aren't they a part of the planet too?
H. Stevens, Columbus, USA
Although I am in favour of the US sending people over to Liberia I'm not sure if they should be troops. You people have to understand the US Army and Marine Corps aren't designed to peacekeep, they are designed to fight wars.
Don, USA
Perhaps the USA shouldn't be expected to have a role in Liberia at all. Everyone looks to the USA to solve the problems of the world and when they do step in, they are vilified.
Africa is rife with dictators, brutality, corruption and famine. Can the USA solve these problems or provide some temporary relief until the next crisis? Probably, but I don't think they should intervene in order to provide a temporary solution to what is happening in Liberia and Africa in general. African leaders need to take responsibility for their own continent.
Patricia,
Canada
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At times like this everyone should step in, not only the USA but the whole world
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At times like this everyone should step in, not only the USA but the whole world. If all nations work together and quit trying to destroy each other, the world will be a much more peaceful world. We all know the difference between right and wrong. What is happening in Liberia to innocent civilians is a just cause for everyone to work together to protect these lives.
Marie, USA
How ironic that Europeans "allow", no, demand that the US send troops to secure a war zone, all without committing themselves, African countries or the United Nations to the fray. This would not be a peace-keeping mission, it would be an "invasion" equal to that of Iraq, or so Europe will say two weeks after we would secure the peace. Where is the UN? Why are the West African countries and ECOWAS waiting for Western money to fund their operations? Where are the neighbouring countries that profited from Taylor? The only time a country should go to war is to protect its own interests (Iraq) or national security (Afghanistan).
Cliff Barbosa,
USA
The US always wanted to be the super power -with world interest in mind, now duty calls where are they. I guess Liberia has no OIL.
Jessymais, Canada
I don't think that the US should intervene. Can the UN only be interested in the glamorous causes such as Iraq and the Israelis and Palestinians? Where is it now?
Daniel, UK
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A superpower cannot have double standards in the 21st century
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I think US 'peacekeeping' forces should go to Liberia as soon as possible. I hear from many Americans that going to Liberia would be a bad idea. What I don't understand is how they think attacking Iraq and killing 1000's of Iraqi citizens was OK but not helping 1000's of Liberian citizens. If the US does not help in Liberia then many more questions are sure to be asked about the reasons for the Iraq war. A superpower cannot have double standards in the 21st century.
Edward B-H, UK
Send in the US Marines. This situation shows why the mighty UN is useless. I hope Bush does the right thing and America finally steps in to stop the senseless violence. By the time the UN decides to
do something it will be way too late.
M Mackay,
USA
I don't think the US or any other Western country should send help to Liberia. This is something for the UN to organise. One side of the African continent wants the imperialist colonizers out; the other side wants them to solve their problems for them. Let the UN with help of African neighbours sort this out. That would be correct.
Victor D.,
Thailand
If it is true that Liberia is first African independent state; then the USA troops must wage in to help. For God sake peace must reign. I'm 26 yrs. of age and I've never heard of peace in that country.
Adeyinka Adejumo, Nigeria
No role without a clear, aggressive, and deadly forceful UN mandate and an international force composed of Americans, Europeans, and Japanese support/engineers. It would help stop senseless slaughter and show us that we can co-operate for a greater good and that the UN is still relevant.
Joe Sca,
USA
What is the purpose of the UN if everyone is now relying on the US to police the planet? Americas' handling of post war peacekeeping and restructuring in Afghanistan and Iraq is not exactly text book. Although I would hate to see British troops killed, we would do a far better job than the Americans. The body count in Afghanistan and Iraq proves that.
G Smith, Germany
I'm a Liberian, living in Libya due to president Charles Taylor's hold on power. I want US go in now. The best solution is for the US to be totally involved because Mr Taylor will not respect ecomog peace-keepers. Besides Mr Taylor should be arrested for crime against humanity [Liberian].
Moses Bayee Railey, Liberia
It's a disgrace for Liberians to keep calling themselves step child to America while the Americans watch our people die in cool blood and don't take any action. If you don't want to help than leave our country today and forever.
William Bombo, USA
All along I could not find a reason why the US should really go to Liberia. But the fact that Bush asked Taylor to step down and the US delegation at Accra recommended that LURD and MODEL not participate in the interim government is reason they should be there to back up the outcome of their words. The US should have known that when you ask a leader to step down, recommend that others trying to oust him not take part in the government and vulnerable civilians join you to do so they are putting their lives at stake with the hope that you will protect them. The US has a stake in the Liberian crisis now that they have open their mouths and spoken words of death.
Musu, Liberia
Yes, the US should get involved. Liberia needs us more than Iraq, and they actually want us there. We should turn our responsibilities in Iraq over to the UN.
Patricia Huerta, USA
Now is the time for US to move into Liberia without hesitation, if to prove people wrong that American only venture where there can be economic benefits, after all, Liberia used to be a good base for them in the past. President must act.
Femi Odukoya, Nigeria
When people are dying in this number there should be no hesitation in sending help. The US should stop "carefully monitoring" the events and actually do something about it. If the soldiers are on standby, what are they waiting for? Something worse than what is going on now? If the US could go to war on Iraq and Afghanistan, for very few reasons, then why not help a country in serious turmoil such as Liberia?
Grace Kane, Scotland
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Surely we in the West have learned some lessons from the horrors of Rwanda
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The US has no special obligation to Liberia, which has been an independent nation since 1847. And what Annan and others are really asking for is an intervention force, since there appears to be no genuine peace to be kept; we should all be clear on this, and honest about the danger and risk to life. But for humanitarian reasons such a force should be sent as soon as possible, and the US should lead it, if necessary. Surely we in the West have learned some lessons from the horrors of Rwanda, and must act to help non-combatants, and to protect them from the savagery that too often overwhelms parts of Africa.
Eric H, USA
The US is not obliged to intervene in the crisis. The UN should instead show it’s role in conflict settlement there. I don’t understand why there was a serious battle between the UN and US on who to play a major role in Iraq but here, the world still wants only the US to be involved. Where is France, ”the major power setting confusion in Africa” and the other super powers? Bush ,don’t send troops there else you will be considered as a very bad president even more. I think the blames on war with Iraq, are too much for you to bear.
genesis, Sweden
America, Please help my People!!!!! We are all dying, our future lies in your rescue. My heart is broken right now. I am so very restless, Our poor people are suffering. Please save us from ourselves. Please do not hesitate any longer, we really need you. Thanks, and God Bless Liberia!!!!!!
Marjon, Liberia/USA
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This is supposed to be a peacekeeping mission not peace-enforcement
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Bush is correct to demand that Charles Taylor step down before US troops are sent in. This is supposed to be a peacekeeping mission not peace-enforcement. If US forces went in immediately and separated the fighting factions, what would stop Taylor from refusing to leave power? We would have to fight another regime change war and no one wants that, right?
Rob Doering, USA
The news pictures and features on the current conflict are horrendous, and any human being, whatever politics they hold, must feel something for the civilians of Liberia. Therefore, it is up to all of us to try and intervene in any way we can. Perhaps the UN may be seen as the proper force to get involved, but the US also has an historical obligation to help the innocent civilians caught in the blood bath that is Liberia. It is entirely a humanitarian crisis and all countries with a social conscience must get involved however they can to try and stop the slaughter, whether the primary force is the UN, or the US. The carnage must be stopped, by any means and by anyone willing to help on moral grounds.
Lorraine Burton,
London, England
I notice that a lot of the Americans here are drawing parallels between Iraq and Afghanistan and Liberia. The fundamental difference is that Iraq and Afghanistan were both countries in trouble but they were not war zones. We invaded them and removed a leader for our own ends. Liberia is a war zone. 90 people died yesterday, that is about 1/2 of the number of Americans who have died in the Iraq conflict. This needs to be stopped by a peace keeping force. I do not think that the US should go in they are no good at dealing with the difficulties that arise from peace keeping, their military's bulldozer approach does no good.
Steve Tolley, London, England
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If you've ever been in war, you'll know what it means to cry out for help
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For the sake of humanity, the US should intervene in the War in Liberia. It would only take a handful of soldiers. The British didn't send their entire army in Sierra Leone but we all saw the difference their presence made. If you've ever been in war, you'll know what it means to cry out for help.
Kathleen Nicol, Ghana
Why don't all of the anti-war demonstrators and the anti-globalization people get together and go down to Liberia and show everyone how to solve the problem? They have said over and over that they are the experts and have all the solutions and are so much smarter than everyone else; here is their big chance to prove it.
Mark Shelton,
America
The US should not go in. The act of piling bodies in front of our embassy to protest our non-involvement instead of piling bodies on their own president's doorstep reflects the damaging dependence Liberia has on outside sources. Until Liberians realize that they are a country of adults and need to take responsibility for that country Liberia will never be stable.
Joy, USA
What gets to me is the fact that the world always waits until these countries degenerate into an outright conflict before acting. We have all known that Liberia has been at a point of conflict for some time but the UN and the so called Super Power have been dithering about what to do. Now that bodies have begun to rot, there seems to be some action. Are they waiting for Zimbabwe to go the same way too? America owes a lot to Liberia and they should have gone in there to stabilise the country particularly considering Charles Taylor has offered to go into exile.
Leslie Maruziva,
UK/Zimbabwe
Is it not rather ironic? The peoples of Africa denounced imperialism and demanded their independence, and once they got it sank into a self-made dismal swamp of corruption disease, drugs, terrorism, dictatorship, failed economies and civil war. So now the colonies are demanding to be re-colonised and it is somehow the duty of the colonisers to intervene. Liberians made this mess, and Liberians should clean it up - that's what their so-called independence really was supposed to be about wasn't it? The United States has no significant economic or strategic interests in Liberia and should stay out.
James E. Geoffrey II,
U.S.A.
Why was everybody who so against the US interfering in Afghanistan and Iraq, where similar slaughters were being conducted, and insisting on the UN running the operation (even though their track record does not inspire us to think they could actually be effective) now complain that the US is not getting involved in Liberia. It seems a case of damned if you do and damned if you don't. Perhaps the 'human shields' from Iraq should go into Liberia to show their humanitarianism?
Tracy White, Italy
I'm an exiled Liberian journalist residing in the U.S. Unfortunately, in spite of the gruesome accounts and media reports from the Liberian crisis, U.S. public support for their troop intervention is literally non-existent. The U.S. is in no hurry to get involved in Liberia. There's no real strategic interest and their military is stretched across various flashpoints in the world. Although the U.S. has a moral duty to get actively involved to stop the carnage, Liberians have to understand that the U.S. has clearly said a long time ago to Liberians "this is your problem". Maybe Liberians expect too much from the U.S. and that's the reason they feel so abandoned.
Ben Walker,
USA
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Liberia can not be solved by any outsider
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As Africans we are very good at creating these intolerable situations involving violence, hunger, disease, and long term damage to our countries. We are also good at shouting out for help to outsiders who have nothing to do with the conditions we keep creating. Why should any US soldier come to Africa to risk his/her life for any of us? What is in it for America? Why can't we just sort our own problems and avoid creating new ones?
Liberia is not an American problem, and as sure as death will come to each of us, Liberia can not be solved by any outsider. When Angola decided to stop fighting they did it very fast and very effectively. America should leave us alone to either die or carry on
Benson Magaba,
Zimbabwe
The US should act as a major actor in bringing peace to Liberia especially now. Her involvement should centre on financing the peacekeeping troops meant to broker peace. Nigeria, my country has spent so much resources towards establishing peace for the Liberians .But our efforts have been hampered by shortage of resources... US should take the bills now for the sake of posterity and for the sake of her closeness to the Liberians
Wole Akinyeye, Nigeria
If Bush is really for world peace, this is where to demonstrate it
Simon, Ghana
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We need to focus on a country that actually wants our help!
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The US has a responsibility to go in and help the people of Liberia simply because we have the power to end a violent existence for the civilians. Our current war in Iraq has become more and more ridiculous, we need to focus on a country that actually wants our help!
Jen, USA
This is irony of the most outrageous and tragic kind. I'm concerned that the U.S. has spread its military too thin, and that is why Bush is reluctant to deploy U.S. forces in a region where a U.S. presence is strongly requested by the civilian population. The U.S. should be there, this is clearly the kind of mission that a peace keeping force should engage in, but I'm afraid that strategically it might be difficult to manage and that the current administration might believe that Liberia should be of no concern to us because it doesn't serve our immediate foreign policy agenda. Meanwhile, the civilian population of Liberia suffers.
Linwood,
USA
Our soldiers and military resources are being spread to thin. It is the responsibility of the world community to handle this atrocity. Oh mighty UN where are you now?
S.P, USA
As an American citizen I am shocked that after such poor use of our forces in Afghanistan and Iraq that instead of immediately helping a country that is currently in the throes of terrible conflict, President Bush threatens the use of force against Iran and Syria. No doubt both countries are not guiltless but why focus on countries that we would throw into chaos when there is a country already in chaos for us to deal with.
Zach Rider, U.S.A
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The UN should be involved because any humanitarian crisis is an international matter
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The US and UN should supply a safe haven for those civilians in this war.
The US should be involved because of their history with Liberia.
The UN should be involved because any humanitarian crisis is an international matter.
Aid in the form of food and medicine should be supplied by any and all countries.
Kevin, Canada
The US role is to take the blame regardless of what it does. If we go in, disarm the factions and start to set up a government, we are imperialists. If we do nothing, we are heartless. If we send troops as peacekeepers, we are foolish and ineffective. If we try to buy peace through bribes and aid, we are supporting dangerous warlords out of "personal interests". Who wouldn't be hesitant to risk the young lives of our already over-burdened military personnel?.
Jim ,
NJ, USA
By not sending troops in Liberia USA is making it clear that Iraq war was only for oil.
I don't think USA will send its troops to Liberia because they have nothing to gain there.
Bhola, India
I am calling on the United States of America to act in the blood bath in Liberia. America has all rights to intervene in the Liberian crisis, and insure stability for a multiple of reasons. Liberia is the only country in West Africa that provided air space to the US during the world war II, hosted the Omega Navigational tower, and served as a strategic country for the United States prior to the 1980-political instability. America has a responsibility to militarily intervene in the Liberia's crisis
Daniel Gayou,
Liberia/USA
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The States has a grave responsibility to aid Liberia
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The States has a grave responsibility to aid Liberia because of our involvement in the country's founding and our culpability for creating its failed constitution which was modelled on our own. Just as France and Belgium should be the first responders to crisis in the Congo & Rwanda, the US should take the lead in Liberia.
Owen, USA
We should help these poor defenceless civilians because it is the right thing to do. But no matter what we do, the media will portray it in a negative light, because that is what they are good at and it sells news papers. So we might as well help them, because we are damned if we do and damned if we don't.
Phil,
NY
Sending peacekeepers to Liberia will not stop the war. The World Super Powers are enemies of Africa, are they not the one manufacturing these arms and selling them to rebels, of course they know what to do to end the war.
Bukola, Germany
I cannot understand how the USA, the purported great champion of democracy and humanitarian, can allow the senseless slaughter of innocent people, even Negro ones. To have provided aid and comfort to the LURD killing hoards through Guinea in order to pressure the tyrant Taylor to leave the country is understandable. To allow the same LURD the freedom of lobbying motor bomb on a desperate and overcrowded city of civilians is complicity to genocide.
S. Olufummin Adamas, JR,
Liberian in the USA - Georgia
Where are the other nations? China's been helping out in East Timor and they've sent some military engineers to Africa in the past. Why don't they help out in Liberia? What about Russia - they have some capability? Even better, many Arab countries military forces are trained and sometimes still commanded by British military personnel. Let's see some Saudi contributions... I could go on.
Jerry Hart, UK
Until the UN has the manpower, weapons and funds necessary to take on this sort of role rich nations, such as the US, will have to show moral and military leadership.
The British and French have recently intervened in Sierra Leone and the Congo to great effect, which shows that it is possible to make a considerable difference with a small, well-armed and trained force.
As Liberia was founded by freed US slaves I see the United States as having a duty of care to the people of Liberia, and the Liberians outside the US embassy would appear to share this view.
The consequences of shirking this responsibility are likely to be severe.
Matt Prescott, Oxford, UK
I believe the United Nations is obliged to intervene, period. The US should not convene a "unlawful war against a sovereign nation", right? Let's not be hypocrites here.
Jason, USA
Does the world think because people are dying here, is reason enough? If so, why was most of the world against action in Iraq, where we are discovering mass graves on a daily basis?
Mike Daly, USA
No role. Apparently rescuing civilian populations from tyrants and humanitarian crises makes America evil imperialists, if the critics of America's actions in Iraq are to be believed. What's the difference in Liberia, that all of a sudden makes it America's duty to intervene? After all, we need to be understanding of different cultures. Right?
Jeremy, Canada
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The US is now in a unique position to use its military to better this world
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If it takes the US to restore order and they want us there then I say we have an obligation to help. After all, Liberia is just not another African country. The US owes it to the people of Liberia to help due to our past histories. No matter whether you were for or against the Iraq war the result has changed the world landscape forever. The US is now in a unique position to use its military (with clear rules of engagement) to better this world for the 21st century. Hopefully my country will use our power for good. We have in the past and we will in the future.
Jeff,
Redondo Beach, US
For the fact that America is number one in terms of world power they must take action without delay. May God bless them.
Moses S Pittman, Gambia
The US should have as much of a role as Liberia requests. If the people there need help, as they have previously stated, I am certain that the US will aid them. This should only be a humanitarian/policing mission for the military not an actual combat situation.
Josh, US
No, no and no. We've already got our hands full in Iraq and we need to settle things down in one area before we move into another.
Krista, USA
The US needs to help but it would nice if the UN would step up. There is a special relationship between the countries. A measured answer and plan are essential.
Bob, Chicago
The situation in Liberia is unfortunate. If the US administration chooses to get involved, it will no doubt be a move to appeal to a certain little special interest group with some big mouthpieces. "I'm sick of the white people choosing why and where we go to war! It's time that African-Americans get to start a war somewhere using the US military toy."
Matthew Tuers, US
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