Russian President Dmitry Medvedev called Wednesday on the warring sides in Libya to end fighting and start peace talks, but warned that there were still two powers in the country. Medvedev suggested Russia could establish formal relations with the rebels if they emerge as a force with nationwide public support, a sign that Moscow is edging toward recognition of forces poised to topple Gaddafi's 42-year-old rule.
"If the rebels have enough strength, spirit and ability to unite the country in a new democratic beginning, we will of course look at establishing a relationship with them’
Medvedev told reporters in Sosnovy Bor, a Russian military base where he met North Korean leader Kim Jong-Il earlier on Wednesday.
"We would like it (the conflict) to end as soon as possible and for them to sit down at the negotiating table and reached an agreement on the future of Libya," said Medvedev in his first public remarks on Libya since Gaddafi fled his Tripoli stronghold. Medvedev described Moscow's position on Libya as “cautious" and said Russia was closely watching the situation.
More than 30 countries, including the United States and some European Union nations, have recognized the rebel National Transitional Council as the new Libyan authorities.