Barack Obama actually said...

"I think as long as they're peaceful, I think they're necessary."

"This is not only personal for me, because of who I am and who Michelle is and who are family members are and what our experiences are, but as President, I consider this to be one of the most important..."

"I appeal to the leaders of South Sudan to pursue peace as a way to honor those who have died."

"Most of it is not federal, but the federal government can have an influence."