Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=04/01/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=PENTAGON / RUMSFELD (S)

NUMBER=2-301621

BYLINE=MEREDITH BUEL

DATELINE=PENTAGON

CONTENT=

INTRO: Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld says there is no outcome to the war in Iraq that will leave Saddam Hussein and his regime in power. As correspondent Meredith Buel reports from the Pentagon, Mr. Rumsfeld says the only thing the coalition will discuss with Baghdad is unconditional surrender.

TEXT: Secretary Rumsfeld says Saddam Hussein's government is spreading rumors that U-S officials are talking to Iraqi leaders about a possible cease-fire.

In remarks addressed directly to the Iraqi people, Mr. Rumsfeld denied such rumors, saying no such negotiations are taking place, and he accused Saddam Hussein's government of lying.

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The regime is not telling the truth. There are no negotiations taking place with anyone in Saddam Hussein's regime. There will be no outcome to this war that leaves Saddam Hussein and his regime in power. Let there be no doubt.

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Secretary Rumsfeld says the only thing coalition forces will discuss with Saddam Hussein's government is an unconditional surrender.

The defense secretary says while more tough fighting is likely in the future, the outcome is assured.

Mr. Rumsfeld says coalition forces are now approaching Baghdad from the north, west and south, and, as he put it, "the circle is closing." (Signed)

NEB/MB/KBK/MAR