US asks NATO to help transport Katrina aid

The United States today asked Nato to take on a bigger role transporting European aid to areas hit by Hurricane Katrina, alliance officials said in Brussels.

A special meeting of the allies immediately ordered military experts to draw up plans for an expanded role, including the possible use of ships from the elite Nato Response Force.

Nato planners are discussing the plans with the US Northern Command.

European nations have made substantial offers of food, medicine, bedding and other help to the stricken Gulf Coast region.