Republicans urge caution on Iraq withdrawal

[unhappycamper]

Republicans urge caution on Iraq withdrawal
By Rick Maze - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Feb 11, 2009 3:59:36 EST

House Republican leaders, just back from a weekend visiting troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, urged the Obama administration to be cautious in withdrawing combat troops from Iraq, but urged speed in building up troop levels in Afghanistan.

Acknowledging the situation in Iraq, in terms of both overall security and political stability, makes withdrawal of U.S. forces “very justifiable,” Rep. John McHugh of New York, ranking Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, said he hoped the timing and pace of withdrawal was determined by U.S. commanders on the ground and not by political considerations.

McHugh, who made his ninth trip to Iraq and his fourth to Afghanistan, said the trip made clear Iraq and Afghanistan are “going in different directions.”

While Iraq is more peaceful — making troops withdrawals possible, although probably not in the 16 months President Barack Obama spoke of during the campaign — Afghanistan faces increasing peril, making a quick buildup of forces imperative, the lawmakers said.

Obama has asked the Defense Department to draw up both withdrawal plans for Iraq and a new strategy for Afghanistan that will involve sending more troops and other resources. While not giving any details, McHugh said he is satisfied with what he has learned about the strategy that is taking shape.


Rest of article at: http://armytimes.com/news/2009/02/mlilitary_republicans_iraqafghanistan_021009w/%2e



uhc comment: Like it or not McHugh, the occupations will be settled by the budget. At $5,000+ per second, the bucks eventually add up.

[liberal N proud]

1. Fuck the republicans, Their lack of judgment got us into Iraq

[catgirl]

2. Sure, we'll listen to their advice

They've got a lot of nerve.