To the Point
Why Are US Troops in Afghanistan?
Barack Obama promised to get US troops out of Iraq and send more to Afghanistan. Vice President Biden says more casualties should be expected. We hear about deteriorating conditions and the risks of escalation. Also, President Obama directs the EPA to review fuel standards, and financial troubles for America’s premier newspaper, the New York Times.
By Warren Olney • • 1h 0m ListenBarack Obama promised to get US troops out of Iraq and send more to Afghanistan. Vice President Biden says more casualties should be expected. We hear about deteriorating conditions on the ground and the risks of escalation. We'll also ask, what's the objective? Also, President Obama directs the EPA to review fuel standards, and the New York Times may be the standard-setter for journalism in America, but Moody's now calls it a "junk bond" investment.
Banner image: Chief elder from the Korengal Valley (C), speaks with a US Army Captain during a meeting October 30, 2008 at the Korengal Outpost in eastern Afghanistan. The Taliban is very popular in the Korengal Valley and most of the elders have strong family ties to local Taliban fighters, who oppose the American presence in their area. Photo: John Moore/Getty Images
In this episode
3 storiesObama Directs EPA to Review Fuel Standards
President Obama today reversed former President Bush and ordered the Environmental Protection Agency to speed up the process of reducing greenhouse gases emitted by cars and trucks. After review, the EPA is expected to grant a waiver to California and 13 other states. Zachary Coile reports from Washington for the San Francisco Chronicle .
Read the story6 minRenewed Focus on the War in Afghanistan
Eight years after being routed by American forces, the Taliban have regained control of much of Afghanistan. Military leaders say 70,000 US and NATO soldiers can't secure the population, so President Obama has promised some 25,000 more.
Read the story36 minNew York Times Given Junk Status
In May, $400 million of debt will come due for the owners of the New York Times . With advertising revenue practically disappearing, the timing couldn't be worse.
Read the story7 min
