The only way out is through. The president announced he will withdraw thirty thousand troops — more than most had predicted — which supposedly appeases his base, which remains unappeased. Peace activists are not going to be pacified until the last American soldier leaves.
The reduction may not satisfy anyone, but it is sufficient to announce further withdrawal in 2012. Given the limited scope of the Taliban’s Spring offensive this year, as well as the fact that Afghans themselves handled the business, the strategy may very well succeed.
And make no mistake: if American troops come home without Afghanistan collapsing, “Obama’s war” will be said with pride. The peace movement will really hate that.
