NTC officials have said control of Sirte would begin a series of moves for elections, a new government and a new constitution.

President Obama said the United States looks forward to the quick formation of a government and to free and fair elections.

Mr. Obama added, "Without putting a single U.S. service member on the ground, we achieved our objectives, and our NATO mission will soon come to an end."

And that's IN THE NEWS in VOA Special English. I'm Steve Ember.