Realism In Afghanistan -- A Commentary

Canadian soldiers patrol in the battle-ravaged Taliban stronghold of Pashmul, Afghanistan, Dec. 4, 2008. Ethan Baron/Canwest News Service

From The National Post:

For some time, it has been clear that complete eradication of the Taliban in Afghanistan is impossible. It has too many domestic supporters inside the country and -- more importantly -- receives too much aid and safe haven across the border in Pakistan. Unless and until the Pakistani government is prepared to confront the Taliban, al-Qaeda and radical Islamists, the Taliban will survive.

This is not the situation we envisioned when Canadian troops first entered Afghanistan in 2001. Indeed, it comes as a disappointment given our original plan for the country: total victory over the Taliban, and the creation of full democracy throughout Afghanistan. Nevertheless, we owe it to our troops, and to the Afghan people, to be realistic about what can be done.

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