Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE= 4/2/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE= PENTAGON / WAR (S-ONLY)

NUMBER=2-301686

BYLINE= ALEX BELIDA

DATELINE= PENTAGON

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: U-S forces are drawing closer to Baghdad, with senior defense officials warning of possible tough fighting ahead. More from V-O-A Correspondent Alex Belida at the Pentagon.

TEXT: Pentagon officials say they have weakened the Iraqi Republican Guard units on the southern approach to Baghdad.

But those Iraqi units are receiving some reinforcements. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, during a visit to Congress, warns there could be difficulties ahead for American troops.

///RUMSFELD ACTUALITY///

The Republican Guard that pretty much ring Baghdad at the present time will probably represent some difficult days ahead and dangerous days ahead in terms of fighting.

///END ACTUALITY///

At the Pentagon, a similar warning from Major General Stanley McChrystal of the military's Joint Staff.

///MCCHRYSTAL ACTUALITY///

We are not expecting to drive into Baghdad suddenly and seize it...

///END ACTUALITY///

Coalition aircraft are pounding critical targets in and around Baghdad. Military officials say one of the latest is what they call a heavily-guarded storage facility for military and security supplies for the Iraqi regime that was hit with nearly 40 precision-guided munitions. No details on what was inside. (Signed)

NEB/BEL/MAR