Medvedev raps use of word 'crusades' on Libya

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on Monday said the use of the term crusades to refer to the situation in Libya was "unacceptable".

Medvedev spoke just hours after Prime Minister Vladimir Putin likened the United Nations Security Council resolution authorising military intervention in Libya to "medieval calls for crusades". Medvedev said Russia would not participate in any military coalition in Libya but was ready to take part in peacekeeping operations. (Reuters)