MATT DRUDGE // DRUDGE REPORT 2002�
XXXXX DRUDGE REPORT XXXXX THU MARCH 28, 2002 14:26:09 ET XXXXX
WHITE HOUSE ANGER AT CNN 'MILITARY NOT READY' REPORT
Senior White House officials are furious over a CNN report which claimed the U.S. military is 'unprepared' to launch a new offensive in the war on terrorism -- possibly against Iraq -- because American troops need a rest!
White House officials watched in disbelief Thursday morning as CNN beamed a report worldwide that stated: "The U.S. military needs more time to retool its ships, aircraft and weapons, restock munitions and to rest its troops."
One Bush official erupted over the story [filed by the network's Jamie McIntyre and slugged 'U.S. Military Not Ready']: "Could they help our enemies any more if they tried! Gee, CNN tells the world: 'Now's the time to attack America! That's what they've just done! We're resting??"
MORE
Introducing the report, CNN anchor Carol Costello announced: "The U.S. military is not quite ready for another major war."
McIntyre reported: "While the U.S. has plenty of the latest satellite-guided bombs, it is short of other high-tech assets, such as unmanned spy planes, which commanders now see as indispensable in providing real-time reports from the battlefield."
A Bush official spoke to the DRUDGE REPORT on condition their identity not be revealed.
"This is one of the most unconscionable stories I've ever seen in my years in public life... How could CNN just tell the world how our troops now need a rest... The impression that has been left is: 'We are in retreat!'"
The all-news channel has not yet received any official complaints from the White House, a CNN spokesman said Thursday afternoon.
Developing...
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Filed By Matt Drudge
Reports are moved when circumstances warrant
http://www.drudgereportArchives.com for updates
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