An article from gazeta.ru (Russian language, source: Prime-TASS) notes that the Union Bank of Switzerland has permitted the US to access funds totaling $1.75 billion in accounts belonging to the government of Iraq.

The story notes that eleven countries have allowed the US to access $600 million frozen in 1990 after the Kuwait invasion, and that efforts are under way to find Saddam's personal accounts, which may contain up to $6 billion.

It is assumed that the confiscated money will be used to finance Iraqi recovery after the war. In this regard, a number of European law experts believe the US may not unilaterally use these funds, as they must be accounted for to the UN.

The photo accompanying the article shows a person holding a sign that reads: United Bandits of Switzerland.

Cheers...