The US Secretary of State Colin Powell told Russian television that the United States is prepared to go to war against Iraq even if the Security Council votes against military action.
The Russians are also hardening their position. The British Foreign Minister Jack Straw tried to bring his Russian counterpart on board during meetings in London. But afterwards Igor Ivanov said Russia may well use its veto.
The United States and Britain are now pushing for a war resolution at the Security Council next week. However other members of the council want to hold off and give inspectors more time.
On Friday, UN chief weapons inspector Hans Blix will say whether Iraq is providing more cooperation now. His report is likely to determine when the Security Council votes on whether to approve military action.