Guest Blogger: Rep. Olson (R-TX) on Afghanistan Strategy & Karzai’s Ability to Lead

Congressman Pete Olson / December 09, 2009

Last weekend, I headed to Afghanistan with some of my colleagues to view firsthand the conditions on the ground as a follow up to the new strategy outlined by President Obama.

We met with our troops and senior military officials and, from my perspective there is a lot of positive momentum coming from them. The morale of our troops is high and our commanders on the ground are confident we can win the tactical battle.

The military is pleased with the President’s decision to send additional troops to assist with the mission. I am also pleased that the President is listening to his generals on the ground, even as some of his staunch political supporters strongly disagree with this decision.

We also met with President Karzai and, candidly, I have serious concerns about his ability to make the changes necessary for the victory. President Karzai has a tough job ahead of him. As I see it, there are four key areas that must improve to ensure victory. (more…)