U.S. takes new approach to Yemen aid program

[unhappycamper]

By Jim Michaels, USA TODAY

WASHINGTON — The United States is sharply increasing the amount of development and other civilian aid it is sending to Yemen and has changed the way it is administered, a move that some experts say may still not be enough to counter al-Qaeda's growing presence there.

"We've reoriented our aid program towards quick impact projects, things that get on the ground in Yemen as quickly as possible," said Janet Sanderson, a deputy assistant secretary of State.

This year, the government budgeted $67.5 million in State Department aid for Yemen, up from $40 million in 2009, according to department statistics. The White House requested $106 million for 2011. The money includes aid for development and police and other security training.

The Pentagon also provided about $155 million in military aid this year.

The increases come amid a growing sense of urgency about Yemen, where the U.S. government faces an escalating threat from extremists and limited military means of countering it.

[kickysnana]

1. "The Mouse that Roared" n/t

[leveymg]

2. Aden and large parts of S Yemen are uncontrollable. Ask the British.

Good luck on that one.