General David Petraeus, Photo: AFP/GETTY IMAGESAfghanistan Is Hard All The Time, But It’s Doable -- David Petraeus, Times Online
As in Iraq in 2007, attacks are frequent and challenges significant. But success is vital for the security of all nations
Colin Cramphorn, a policeman who served with distinction in Northern Ireland among many other places, observed that while every location is different, all are nonetheless connected. He realised not only that local knowledge is critical, but that the fate of one location often depends on the destiny of another. This insight was almost John Donnesque, akin to his observation that “no man is an island”. It is a key insight for our security: no problem can be viewed in isolation.
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COMMENTARIES, OPINIONS, AND EDITORIALS
Rebuilding Afghanistan: Q&A with James Dobbins -- Greg Scoblete, RCW
Why Efforts to Disarm the Taliban Have Failed -- Tim McGirk, Time
The Afghanistan Problem: Why Are We in Helmand? -- Joe Klein, Time opinion.
No Time to Cut and Run -- Ed Feulner, Washington Times opinion.
Iran rattled by Washington's resolve -- Kaveh L Afrasiabi, Asia Times
Did the US do a deal with Russia? -- Meir Javedanfar, The Guardian
Obama's Anniversary Gift to Russia -- Washington Times editorial
Placating Russia Won't Work -- David J. Kramer, Washington Post opinion
Obama's Missile Offense -- Wall Street Journal editorial
Obama's Good Missile Sense -- New York Times editorial
Caucasus Is Real Citadel of Russian Power -- Sergei Konoplyov, Moscow Times
Russia's Far East: Conflict on the Horizon -- Russell Sticklor, Diplomatic Courier
Turkey's War on the Press -- Asli Aydintasbas, Wall Street Journal opinion
Argentina Moves to Rein In Media -- Matt Moffett, Wall Street Journal
Ending the 'War on Drugs' -- New York Times editorial