Powell hits back at European criticism

The US Secretary of State, Colin Powell, has accused some European countries of constantly attacking American foreign policy as it pursues its war on terrorism.

In an interview with the British newspaper, The Guardian, he said European criticism of American policy statements such as President Bush's axis of evil speech was misplaced.

Mr Powell did not identify the critics he was singling out.

He cited the imminent enlargement of Nato and Russia's acceptance of the proposed US National Missile Defence system as successes of the Bush administration's policies.

Mr Powell, who is to accompany President Bush on a visit to Europe shortly, said that anti-European sentiments in America reflected anti-US feelings in Europe.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service