I don't necessarily disbelieve you. But would you be able to provide a source for that? Or, would anyone else here vouch for that claim? Or could you provide more details?
My memory is the source as it took place in 1991 before the internet. There may be some sources on the 'Net, however. I'll do some searching and get back with you.
What I recall is that during the final days of the Fisrt Gulf War there were high level discussions with the Soviets - who considered Saddam their friend. IMO the result (us not pursuing the Republican Guard past Basra) was because we gave in to the Soviets. At that time the Soviets were still a major power.