Posted: May 30, 2004

Olympics: United States wants to send Special Forces to protect Olympic athletes

A newspaper in Greece is reporting the United States wants to send Special Forces to protect American athletes at this summer\'s Olympic Games.

The Athens daily Vima says Greek authorities are considering a U-S request to deploy 550 troops from a rapid response force.

The newspaper reports the ministries of defense and foreign affairs are looking at the request within the context of NATO, which will provide assistance during the Olympics. There\'s been no comment from the government or security forces.

About 70-thousand police officers and soldiers will patrol Athens and Olympic venues during the games.