The bottom line is that after we defeat the armed forces of Iraq, that we will want to and need to provide stability throughout that country.

I have sworn to uphold the Constitution ... and a free press is absolutely vital to the freedom of this country.

I can tell you categorically that any mal- treatment of any detainees by U.S. forces or coalition forces is totally unacceptable - that our orders have and will continue to be that we will treat everyone in our charge with - humanely and with respect.

From 8,000 miles away... I would not judge a fellow soldier from a friendly nation and how they are employing their resources.

There has not yet been a major ground offensive battle... There are, we know, negotiations going on between the opposition forces and the Taliban leadership for surrender.

I do not believe the United States is well served by a policy that says it is OK to be immoral in any way.

We prefer that the leaders of the Iraqi armed forces do the honorable thing; stop fighting for a regime that does not deserve your loyalty.