Europe drafts stiff protest over US ban on pipeline

The European Common Market drafted a detailed and vehement protest to the United States over its ban on equipment for a Soviet natural gas pipeline, describing the move as contrary to ''even the more controversial principles of international law.''

Diplomats said the 15-page protest note, compiled by EC legal and trade experts, was submitted Wednesday night to EC governments for final approval and would probably be forwarded to the US State and Commerce Departments next week.