NATO split on joining U.S. action

BRUSSELS, SEPT. 17. Despite committing themselves to go to its aid in the wake of last week's attacks, the U.S. allies in NATO are split on whether to take part militarily in any U.S. reprisals.

Britain and Germany have clearly said they are ready to contribute soldiers if Washington asks them to.

The British Prime Minister, Mr. Tony Blair, who has declared ``war on terrorism,'' left no doubt yesterday about London's participation, and he has already put at Washington's disposal British land and naval air forces.

He had earlier specified, however, that Britain did not intend to give a ``blank cheque'' to the U.S..

The German Chancellor, Mr. Gerhard Schroeder had not ruled out German participation, but at the same time he warned against an exclusively military response, calling for the implementation of ``political and diplomatic means.''

The Italian Defence Minister, Mr. Antonio Martino, said his country would not send its soldiers. Greece, too, does not appear to favour a role for its troops, according to the Defence Ministry in Athens. The Portuguese Prime Minister, Mr. Antonio Guterres warned against any ``bellicose'' action ``against imaginary enemies.''

- AFP

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