Britain’s army chief says Afghan mission could take 40 years

[unhappycamper]

Britain’s army chief says Afghan mission could take 40 years
By John Vandiver, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Tuesday, August 11, 2009

The former commander of NATO’s quick reaction force, who is now poised to step into the role as Britain’s army chief, says his country’s troops should be prepared to be engaged in Afghanistan for decades to come.

In an interview with The Times of London, Gen. David Richards forecasted a commitment that will change over time, with increased focus on development, governance and security sector reform.

But while the British army’s role will evolve, “the whole process might take as long as 30 to 40 years,” Richards said during an interview published Saturday.

Richards added that there was “absolutely no chance” of NATO pulling out completely, telling The Times that Britain would continue to do its part in the nation-building effort.

The general’s comments have caused consternation among some British political leaders, who are saying such a commitment is unsustainable.


Rest of article at: http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=64111



uhc comment: I'm glad to hear British political leaders are saying such a commitment is unsustainable. Too bad Obama isn't on that same page.

[teranchala]

1. The Russians finally figured out it was a losing proposition.

"Those who forget history......."

[unhappycamper]

3. Yes, they did.

Welcome to DU teranchala! :hi:

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

2. Whoopee! It's the light at the end of the tunnel! K&R

Though we'll be long gone and broke(r) by the time the politicians and generals are willing to admit that we lost...again.