This week, the atrocities that continue to occur in Darfur, Sudan were addressed when the United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan met with President Bush to discuss the role the United Sates would need to play to bring about an end to the genocide that has already left over 400,000 innocent civilians dead.

This meeting was both important and timely. The month of February represents a chance for the United States to demonstrate it’s commitment to the people of Darfur, as we hold the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council. In order to truly bring about an end to the crisis, it is vital that the United States takes on a strong leadership role within the United Nations. The meeting between these two men is an indication that we are moving in the right direction, but more definitive action needs to be taken.

This week also included word from NATO allies, who said they would support the transition of the African Union troops to a United Nations force, a move that would strengthen the current peace keeping forces in Darfur. However, NATO allies reiterated that they are reluctant to send their own troops to the region because of, among other things, a fear that Western soldiers would be unwelcome and counterproductive in Sudan.