Gates: Early pullout reliant on 'conditions' in Afghanistan

[Robb]

Source: CNN

Kabul, Afghanistan (CNN) -- After surveying training camps in eastern Afghanistan, Defense Secretary Robert Gates hinted Wednesday that U.S. troops could be leaving earlier than the announced July 2011 troop withdrawal date.

Without giving details, Gates said that any early pullout and handover of control to Afghan forces "would have to be conditions-based."

"We will begin that transition no later than July 2011, but the pace will depend also on conditions on the ground," Gates said after watching training exercises at Camp Blackhorse, where U.S. and British forces train Afghan soldiers.

Read more: http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/03/10/afghanistan.gates/

[unhappycamper]

1. Bummer.

There's still some money in the Treasury - why is Gates talking about leaving?

[Robb]

2. Perhaps, and this is a big maybe,

...perhaps you've mischaracterized the effort there?

We'll see, of course. You still have much time to be right.

[Lerkfish]

3. mischaracterized in what way?

please elucidate

[lonestarnot]

4. Going to clean that out with mandated insurance customers.

[NJmaverick]

5. More good news!