Strongest supporter of U.S. position. Prime Minister Jean Chretien announced February 10 that Canada will send a frigate, transport aircraft, and 300 to 400 troops to support U.S. forces in the Gulf. The Foreign Ministry said February 13 the Netherlands would send a frigate to join U.S. forces in the Gulf, but it would only participate in military action if all diplomatic options are exhausted. After February meeting with Secretary of Defense Cohen, Chancellor Helmut Kohl said Germany will allow U.S. use of bases in Germany for strike on Iraq. Offer is considered more significant politically than operationally.
German leaders appear to want all possible diplomatic options exhausted before any strike.
Believes military action could have unintended adverse consequences for Middle East stability. Has not yet taken a position on U.S. use of bases in Italy for strikes. Position somewhat unclear. Spanish press report says government will authorize U.S. to station 30 aerial refueling tankers at a southern base. Favors diplomacy backed by threat of force.