(GAO)Audit cites lack of planning for Afghan security

[maddezmom]

Source: AP

WASHINGTON - Six years and $16.5 billion later, the U.S. still lacks a solid plan to create a self-sustaining security force in Afghanistan, a new independent audit finds.

The Government Accountability Office found in a report released Wednesday that "some progress" has been made in training and equipping Afghanistan's army and police forces, but the Defense and State departments "lacked detailed plans and cost estimates for completing and sustaining" the forces.

The audit comes as violence in Afghanistan is on the rise and the U.S. is pleading with NATO allies to send more troops and trainers. Last month, American and allied combat deaths in Afghanistan passed the monthly toll in Iraq for the first time.

GAO said the U.S. government must more clearly define its objectives, set milestones and lay out a concrete spending plan for future requirements.



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