Berlusconi Plays Down U.S. Warning

ROME (AP) - Premier Silvio Berlusconi said Thursday there is "no need for particular concern" as his defense chief criticized the U.S. government for warning that extremists might target Americans in four Italian cities on Easter.

Italy stepped up security, nevertheless, after the State Department warned on Wednesday that a "possible threat exists to U.S. citizens in the cities of Venice, Florence, Milan and Verona on Easter Sunday from extremist groups." It urged Americans to be alert and avoid large crowds.

After a Cabinet meeting Thursday, Berlusconi said Italy was ready to deal with any possible terrorist threat. "We have put anything that can be put on alert on alert," the premier said, "but based on the information we have there is no need for particular concern."