To the Point
What's the Outlook for Peace in Afghanistan?
NATO's latest strategy in Afghanistan is to forget trying for a military victory and to concentrate on "reintegration" and "reconciliation." We talk with the deputy to General Stanley McCrystal and others about what that means and how it might be accomplished. Also, President Obama's new budget, and his plans for 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.'
By Warren Olney • • 50m ListenNATO's latest strategy in Afghanistan is to forget trying for a military victory and to concentrate on "reintegration" and "reconciliation." We talk with the deputy to General Stanley McCrystal and others about what that means and how it might be accomplished. Also, President Obama's new $3.8 trillion budget, and an update White House plans for repealing 'Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.'
Banner image: Members of the International Security Assistance Force talk with village elders during a shura. Photo: French Ministry of Defense
In this episode
3 storiesBig Numbers and the White House Budget
Introducing his $3.8 trillion budget today, President Obama first said he inherited a massive deficit run up by the Bush Administration.
Read the story8 minTime to Negotiate Peace with the Taliban in Afghanistan?
Even the generals concede they can't win a military victory against the Taliban with just 18 months left until US combat forces begin to withdraw. Their best hope is to persuade low-ranking fighters to switch sides and then to negotiate with Taliban leaders who renounce violence and agree to share power.
Read the story38 minCongress Takes Up 'Don't Ask Don't Tell'
In last week's State of the Union address, President Obama repeated his long-standing promise to repeal the current policy on gays in the military. At a congressional hearing tomorrow, Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Admiral Mike Mullen, Chair of the Joint Chiefs, will announce plans for repealing Don't Ask Don't Tell.
Read the story5 min
