EU, NATO prepare hurricane aid after US request

The European Union and NATO said today they have received an official request from the United States for emergency assistance…

The European Union and NATO said today they have received an official request from the United States for emergency assistance for regions stricken by Hurricane Katrina.

The United States has asked for first aid kits, blankets, water trucks, and 500,000 prepared meals, the EU executive Commission said. "We are and have been ready to contribute to the U.S. efforts aimed at alleviating the humanitarian crisis in New Orleans," EU Commissioner Stavros Dimas said in a statement.

NATO said the United States had asked it for food supplies.