The U.N. Security Council has authorized French and African troops in Central African Republic to use force to protect civilians.

…on the same day rival militia clashed in the capital of Bangui.

Central African Republic Prime Minister Nicolas Tiangaye:

(SOUNDBITE) (French) CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC PRIME MINISTER NICOLAS TIANGAYE SAYING:

"The situation has got a lot worse since this morning with the fighting that has taken place in Bangui. The initial death toll at this point is of several dozen and we have several hundred people wounded. And it's a worrying situation, and everything will need to be done so the situation is brought under control as quickly as possible."

The Security Council also imposed an arms embargo on the country and asked the U.N. to prepare for a possible peacekeeping mission.

French President Francois Hollande says it is their duty to help out.

(SOUNDBITE) (French) FRENCH PRESIDENT FRANCOIS HOLLANDE SAYING:

"Given t