FACTBOX: International reaction to South Ossetia conflict

(Reuters) - The United States, NATO and the European Union called for an immediate end to fighting in Georgia's South Ossetia region and called for talks between the sides.

Here are some details:

FRANCE:

"Foreign and European affairs minister, Bernard Kouchner, is extremely preoccupied by the events in South Ossetia, Georgia. He deplores the loss of human life.

"France reiterates its attachment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia in its internationally recognized borders.

"France calls on all parties to cease hostilities immediately and return to without delay to negotiations, which are the only way to resolve this crisis."

GERMANY: Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier:

"I am shocked by the escalation of violence in South Ossetia in the last 48 hours. It is still unclear who is responsible for the new outbreak of violence.

"All combat operations must be stopped and all the forces that have been led to South Ossetia in the last 48 hours must be pulled back. I have expressed that opinion to Georgian President Saakashvili and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov on the phone."

Government spokesman Thomas Steg:

"Chancellor Angela Merkel has urged the conflict parties in South Ossetia to show calm and restraint and called for an immediate stop to all use of force."

POLAND: Polish President Lech Kaczynski's office:

"The president believes that any interference in internal matters of the Republic of Georgia is unacceptable and that any such action, if it intensifies, could lead to tragic consequences."

TURKEY:

The Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement it was watching developments with concern and called for a peaceful solution.

"Our country is making a call for the sides to halt clashes and military action and hold direct talks."