Analysis & Opinions - The Washington Post

Trump says ‘our troops will fight to win’ in Afghanistan. Here’s why peace and stability are so elusive.

    Author:
  • Geoffrey Swenson
| Aug. 22, 2017

Over 15 years ago, the United States first intervened in Afghanistan. In the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, U.S. forces backed the Northern Alliance in a successful effort to depose the Taliban regime that had harbored al-Qaeda terrorists.

Last night, after months of intense debate, President Trump announced the expansion of U.S. troops in Afghanistan. In a major speech, Trump reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to winning in Afghanistan. No firm numbers were given, but it is estimated that roughly 4,000 U.S. troops would join the 8,400 stationed there to train and assist Afghan forces.

While rejecting any firm timetables for withdrawal, Trump also stressed that the U.S. commitment “is not unlimited.” The new approach’s exact parameters are unclear, but it is fraught with risks.

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For more information on this publication: Belfer Communications Office
For Academic Citation: Swenson, Geoffrey.“Trump says ‘our troops will fight to win’ in Afghanistan. Here’s why peace and stability are so elusive..” The Washington Post, August 22, 2017.

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Geoffrey Swenson

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