President Obama spoke from the White House earlier this afternoon to give some details about that minor U.S.-supported military intervention in Libya authorization the United Nations passed yesterday. He probably didn't want to say anything, but he's jetting to Brazil this weekend and felt he should throw American citizens a bone about the possible third war we're entering.

While he made clear that Western ground troops would not be deployed, he also delivered an ultimatum to dictator Muammar Qaddafi:

"Muammar Qaddafi has a choice," he said. "The United States, the United Kingdom, France and Arab states agree that a cease-fire must be implemented immediately. That means all attacks against civilians must stop."

"Let me be clear, these terms are not negotiable," Mr. Obama said in the East Room of the White House. "If Colonel Qaddafi does not comply with the resolution, the international community will impose consequences. The resolution will be enforced through military action."

Qaddafi has called for a ceasefire with rebels in the east, but there's no indication that he intends actually to cease fire on rebels in the east. He loves to "get crazy" with the world, after all. So we'll see! In the meantime, enjoy doing fun things in Rio, Mister President.