U.S. Prepares to Expand War to Somalia

U.S. President George W. Bush strongly hinted his intention to expand the war at the completing stage of the war against Afghanistan, stating that the U.S. will punish at the national level for supporting terror.

Bush, who is visiting the Charleston Citadel Military Academy in South Carolina, proposed strategic measures to carry out the war on terrorism including "prevention of a mass destructive terror, punishment of the terrorist groups and the support groups even through a long lasting war, and the acceleration of the U.S. Military system."

He also mentioned about so-called `rogue states` and warned, "The U.S. will not look over the nations that provide the refuges, funds, or training facilities." But he did not name any specific nation in his remarks on the rogue states.

The U.S. press including the Washington Post reported that the U.S. began its surveillance patrol over Somalia and contacted the revolt militia, showing high possibility of the expanded war. Vice President Dic Chaney also said, "Somalia and Iraq are threatening the security of the U.S."

The Northern Alliance Commander announced that the troops of Al Qaeda in the Torabora area did not surrender by the time of ultimatum, 8 A.M. on Dec. 12th.

The U.S. army resumed its air strikes on the Torabora area after the time of ultimatum, mobilizing B 52 bombers.

Han Ki-Heung eligius@donga.com