Clinton brings phones, promises to quake-hit Chile

additional help, including a field hospital with surgical facilities that Clinton said is "ready to go."

The United States is sending more satellite phones, which work in areas where land lines and cell phone towers are out of commission. Chile identified the phones as a high priority, Clinton said.

Also on the way are eight water purification systems, generators, medical equipment and supplies. Other donations could include mobile kitchens, temporary bridges and helicopters. The amount of such aid will depend on what Chile requests, Clinton said.

If the initial U.S. donation seems small, U.S. officials say it is in part a reflection of Chile's initial reluctance to ask for more. U.S. officials said Chile would not have to repay any U.S. assistance. Officials could not offer specifics as to when the additional U.S. aid would arrive.

Chile's neighbors have already acted.

Argentina on Monday flew in an Air Force C-130 with much of a hospital — including a surgical and intensive care unit, ambulance and laboratory — three water treatment plants and power generation units, the military announced.

Five other planeloads of aid were supposed to arrive by Tuesday night.

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva visited Chile on Monday. He said a first planeload of aid would arrive Tuesday, followed later by a full army field hospital.

Peru said it was sending a mobile hospital and doctors with 15 tons of blankets and tents.

U.S. officials said they made clear to Chilean government officials soon after the quake that Washington was prepared to assist, but they also said privately that they were careful not to presuppose that Chile would want outside help or to give the impression of underestimating Chile's disaster preparedness.

Paul Simons, the U.S. ambassador in ...