Greek frigate returns after Libya evacuation, Poland also withdraws

PIRAEUS, Greece – A Greek navy frigate carrying embassy staff and nearly 200 people from Greece, China and other countries evacuated from the conflict in Libya has returned to a port near Athens.

Passengers on the frigate Salamis on Saturday described a deteriorating security situation in the Libyan capital Tripoli, with frequent power and water cuts.

The Greek Defense Ministry the ship transported 77 people from Greece, 78 from China, 10 from Britain, seven from Belgium, one each from Russia and Albania.

Poland's Foreign Ministry said Friday that it has evacuated two dozen Poles and citizens of two other countries. All of Poland's diplomats have now left the country.

Britain says it will suspend work at its consulate in Tripoli once it has completed assisting the departure of British nationals.