Leon Panetta claims Afghan 'surge' a success as more troops leave
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The 33,000 additional US troops that President Barack Obama ordered to Afghanistan to suppress Taliban attacks nearly two years ago have now left the country, but a new wave of deadly insider attacks and a reassessment of how Nato troops partner with Afghans have raised questions about the military strategy.
The US Defence Secretary, Leon Panetta, announced yesterday that the troops had come out, declaring that the "surge" had accomplished its mission. But after a tumultuous week in Afghanistan that saw commanders put limits on when Nato and Afghan troops can patrol together, Mr Panetta also acknowledged there will be difficult days ahead.
"The surge did accomplish it objectives of reversing the Taliban momentum on the battlefield and dramatically increasing the size and capability of the Afghan national security forces," Mr Panetta said on an official visit to New Zealand. The withdrawal, which was completed on schedule, still leaves close to 100,000 Nato troops in the country, including 68,000 Americans.
However, Mr Panetta's claims of success are called into question by the decision this week that, at least temporarily, Nato operations with small Afghan units are no longer routine, and will require special approval. This is in response to a growing wave of so-called insider attacks, in which Afghan Army and police troops, or insurgents dressed in their uniforms, have turned their guns on Nato forces.
AP
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments