Obama Gambles on Dubious Afghan Allies

Surge relies on corrupt Karzai government, poorly-trained military

By Kevin Spak, Newser Staff

Posted Dec 2, 2009 8:49 AM CST

(Newser) – By announcing an 18-month timetable, Barack Obama has thrown down the gauntlet for an Afghan government and military that have so far proven unreliable. Hamid Karzai’s government is considered among the world’s most corrupt, but Obama seems to be betting that the withdrawal... Read full story »

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Obama Gambles on Dubious Afghan Allies

Surge relies on corrupt Karzai government, poorly-trained military

Afghanistan • Barack Obama • Hamid Karzai • corruption • Afghanistan army • Afghanistan war • Afghan police • Afghanistan troop surge • President Obama speech

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Troop Surge Number? 34K

With NATO troops, total close to McChrystal request

A Doubting Washington Greets Karzai

Afghan president has 'plateaued,' diplomats say

Once Burned, Afghans Fear Repeat of 1989

Troop withdrawal could lead to instability, some fear

Biden Makes Surprise Afghanistan Visit

VP to review progress in security handover

US Plans 2014 End to Afghan Combat

Phased withdrawal echoes Iraq exit strategy

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