U.S. request to send more troops gets lukewarm response from allies

U.S. request to send more troops gets lukewarm response from allies


By William J. Kole
ASSOCIATED PRESS
9:28 a.m. May 14, 2004

VIENNA, Austria – The United States is quietly pressing its allies to send more troops to Iraq, but it's getting a lukewarm response amid escalating violence and public outcry over the abuse of Iraqi prisoners.

Washington asked Albania to increase the size of its 71-soldier non-combat unit patrolling the northern Iraqi city of Mosul, and the Albanian government is receptive, Defense Ministry spokesman Igli Hasani confirmed Friday.

"Albania is ready to respond to such a request" and had already offered additional troops, Hasani said. He said the mostly Muslim country, a staunch U.S. ally, may boost its contingent to 200 soldiers if parliament approves.

Denmark will extend the mission of its 496 troops in southern Iraq by six months, and Norway will maintain a small military presence after it pulls out its main contingent next month. The Philippines is sending 45 more soldiers and police to strengthen its humanitarian effort, restoring the total to its original 100.
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http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/world/iraq/20040514-0928-iraq-coalition.html