United Nations: United States (US) and Russia have disagreed in the United Nations (UN) Security Council over what items Iraq be allowed to import under the Oil-for- Food programme and the period for which the humanitarian scheme be extended.

The US has said it would propose a two-week extension of the 'oil-for-food' programme for Iraq to give time to the Security Council to consider amending the list of items for the import of which Baghdad needs the Council's Approval.

The American proposal angered Russia and several other members of the Council who wanted it to be extended for the usual six-month term, but diplomats said they would have to agree to Washington's proposal as otherwise the programme itself would be in danger.

Earlier, the Council had granted nine days extension to the programme as the US raised the issue of amending the list to include some of the items, which it argues could be used by Iraq for military purposes if Washington takes military action against it.

The US, concerned that Baghdad could be buying equipment for war, is seeking to expand the list and has said that unless additions are made, they would not support a routine, six-month extension of the programme.

Iraqi diplomats strongly criticized the US accusing it of "playing games" and Secretary-General Kofi Annan urged the Council keep in view the interests of Iraqi civilians for whom the programme is meant.

Among the items the US wants to add on the restricted list are antidotes for biological and nerve gas agents and devices which could be used to jam guidance systems of its "smart weapons" if it attacks Iraq.

PTI