Political Science Publications
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-22-2021
Journal
Hill Times
Abstract
The article discusses the necessity of a conditions-based approach for U.S. troop withdrawals from Afghanistan, rather than adhering to a strict timeline. The current situation in Afghanistan is fragile, with the Taliban showing no incentives to compromise and ongoing violence claiming numerous lives. NATO defense ministers recently reaffirmed their commitment to the mission in Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of renewed and smaller troop commitments. The Afghan government's involvement in peace talks with the Taliban has not yielded significant breakthroughs, as procedural issues dominate the discussions. The article criticizes former U.S. President Donald Trump's inconsistent strategies and highlights the potential risks of a hasty U.S. withdrawal. It argues that a coordinated approach, involving gradual troop reductions linked to peaceful steps by both the Taliban and the Afghan government, is essential. The U.S. Secretary of Defense and other NATO allies, including Germany, express support for continued engagement in Afghanistan to prevent a breakdown of order. The piece suggests that while a UN Rapid Deployment force could be an ideal long-term solution, current conditions make it impractical. The Afghan people, desperate for peace, face the threat of civil war if left unsupported by international forces. The article underscores the importance of sustained international commitment to achieving stability and peace in Afghanistan.
Notes
First published in The Hill Times, Canada' foremost foreign and defense policy magazine.