Russia/Iraq deal a blow to US plans for attack

RUSSIA yesterday said it was set to sign a $40billion economic and trade co-operation agreement with Iraq in a move that could complicate Washington’s plans to topple Iraqi president Saddam Hussein.

A top Russian official confirmed the deal was being prepared despite concerns expressed by the administration of President Bush, who has made ousting Saddam a top priority and is seeking to build international support for a possible attack on Iraq.

“This document is being prepared,” said Oleg Buklemeshev, an adviser to Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov. “We do not know when it will be signed. When it is ready, it will be signed.”