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Iraq

For wars, aid for allies, Bush seeks $81.9-billion

WASHINGTON - President Bush asked Congress on Monday to provide $81.9-billion more for wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and for other U.S. efforts overseas, shoving the total price for the conflicts and antiterror fight past $300-billion.

The request was the latest demonstration of how the soaring costs of war - and the ongoing reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan - have exceeded the administration's early characterizations. White House officials derided former Bush economic adviser Lawrence Lindsey's early estimate of a $100-billion to $200-billion price.

About $77-billion of the total was for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, while about $5-billion was for aid to U.S. allies. Of the total package for the wars, the vast majority - $74.9-billion - was for the Defense Department, with other agencies sharing the rest.

Some $12-billion was requested to replace or repair worn-out and damaged equipment, including $3.3-billion for extra armor for trucks and other protective gear.

There was also nearly $400-million for more generous death benefits for the families of slain American soldiers, and money to cover higher fuel costs and programs aimed at boosting the morale of U.S. troops, many of whom have been forced to serve prolonged periods in Iraq.

Before Monday's request, Congress had already approved $201.2-billion for the Defense Department since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, for the two wars and its other efforts to tighten security and to hunt terrorists, according to a tally by the Congressional Research Service. In addition, lawmakers had provided nearly $27-billion for rebuilding Iraq and Afghanistan, said the service, which compiles reports for Congress.

[Last modified February 15, 2005, 01:17:05]