U.S. backs Europe's actions to calm markets

WASHINGTON May 10 (Reuters) - The Obama administration on Monday praised steps taken by Europe to calm markets amid the Greek debt crisis.

"We support the extensive actions by the EU, the European Central Bank and the Euro Area member states to restore global confidence and financial stability and promote continued recovery," a White House official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"The president supports assertive action to address this issue, and leaders in Europe have his support going forward as they make tough decisions to address this situation," the official said.

(Reporting by Ross Colvin, editing by Caren Bohan)