"We are seriously concerned by the attempts of certain circles in the United States to drag Russia into an information war over Iraq by making unfounded accusations that Russian companies supplied some military equipment to Iraq," Ivanov told the Russian Federal Council or the upper house of parliament.

He urged the US to demonstrate "responsibility" and avoid steps that could hurt Russia-US relations in the long-term.

Ivanov also reiterated Moscow's firm opposition to any attempts to legitimize the ongoing US-led war on Iraq through the United Nations Security Council.

Washington Monday accused Russian companies of providing anti-tank guided missiles, night-vision goggles and satellite jamming devices to Iraq.

(Xinhua News Agency March 26, 2003)