"In any case, we are very interested in Gaddafi's departure from power," Rice told ABC television.
Although the US mission within the mandate given by the UN is limited "to the protection of civilians", the long-term American goal, as stated by Rice, is the departure of the Libyan leader from power.
"That means denying Gaddafi (financial) means, preventing him from using his mercenaries, weapons, giving aid to the rebels and the opposition, starting a political process," she said.
When asked if there is a possibility for the US to directly provide military aid to the rebels in Libya in order to achieve the mentioned goal, Rice answered: "We have not made such a decision ... But we do not rule it out."
"Gaddafi must make a decision about leaving power. But we still have no indications that he is preparing to do so," said the American ambassador to the UN.
We hear different things from different people from Gaddafi's entourage or those, as she said, who claim to be from his entourage.
"But, more than words, we expect actions," Rice said, adding that ultimately "it is up to the Libyan people to decide the circumstances of Gaddafi's departure."
Bonus video:
