US Afghan stand-off puzzles Nato allies (BBC)

[eppur_se_muova]

Caroline Wyatt
Defence Correspondent, BBC News

The recent attempts by the US to urge its allies to boost their combat roles in southern Afghanistan has both puzzled and antagonised some Nato members, who see it as unconstructive and driven mainly by America's domestic politics.

In a rather testy answer to US Defence Secretary Robert Gates' demands for more combat troops, Germany has made it clear it is doing all it can in northern Afghanistan.

In his response, the German defence minister reminded America that the mandate for its 3,200 troops was set by the country's parliament last year, so could not be changed.

America feels that it is bearing the brunt of the fighting in the south, and is sending in another 3,000 marines to reinforce its operations there - leaving Mr Gates and the US administration having to explain to the American public why other Nato allies are not doing the same.
***
more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7223559.stm

[lligrd]

1. America Starts A War And Then

complains that it is bearing the brunt of the fighting, Go figure!

[bemildred]

2. I suppose it's just out of the question to admit what a thoroughly useless enterprise it is. nt

[DavidDvorkin]

3. "Why aren't they just ignoring Parliament?"

That would Bush's response.

[yurbud]

4. Germany teaching us about checks and balances in military action...

[libodem]

5. I surprised

we aren't sending 3,000 mercenaries or gorillas.

[TrogL]

6. No mention of Canada's role, as usual

With friends like this, who needs enemies.

I know - Blame Canada.