Bush Vigorously Defends War in Iraq; First of 3 Speeches Is Administration's Comprehensive Answer to Mounting Criticism

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ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - President Bush gave an unflinching defense of his war strategy on Wednesday, refusing to set a timetable for U.S. troop withdrawals and asserting that once-shaky Iraqi troops are proving increasingly capable. Democrats dismissed his words as a stay-the-course speech with no real strategy for success.

Bush recalled that some Iraqi security forces once ran from battle and he said their performance "is still uneven in some parts." But he also said improvements have been made in training and Iraqi units are growing more independent and controlling more territory.

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Bush Vigorously Defends War in Iraq; First of 3 Speeches Is Administration's Comprehensive Answer to Mounting Criticism

"This will take time and patience," said Bush, who is under intense political pressure as U.S. military deaths in the war rise beyond 2,100...

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