NATO leaders approached Moscow today, seeking to garner Russian support for the NATO/ISAF war underway in Afghanistan. Russia has intimate tactical and operational experience in Afghanistan, and has repeatedly refused to participate in hostilities (after losing its own brutal and draining 10 year war in the mountainous nation). Moscow says however, that it supports the US-Led initiative to topple the Taliban from power, and the most recent NATO overtures are invitations to Russia to play a role in the shaping of the new Afghan National Army and the training of security personnel. NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen was quoted in a Reuters article as saying: "Next, Russia could provide equipment for the Afghan security forces. Thirdly, Russia could provide training. These are just some examples. I think we should explore in a joint effort how we could further Russian engagement..."
Memorial to Russian War Dead from their 10 year fight against the Mujaheddin in Afghanistan.
Meanwhile, US officials pledged $1.5 Billion a Year for the next 5 years to support Pakistan as an ally in the war on terror. This funding comes in the form of ‘nonmilitary aid’ but is intended to shore up stability and combat extreme sentiment in Pakistani society. This aid will undoubtedly encompass economic development and social improvements, in order to combat the trends of radicalization and give marginalized tribal populations in Pakistan alternatives to taking up arms.
Sources:
Reuters – Pakistan seeks long-term commitment from U.S.
Reuters – NATO seeks more Russian Help in Afghanistan
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment