US and Taliban Reach Truce; May Lead to Peace Agreement and Withdrawal of All US Forces

What this means is that the Taliban will be allowed some -- maybe most -- power in Afghanistan going forward.

We lost the war -- or at least we lost it based on the expansive and absurd definitions of success that our genius Neocon Non-Warriors set for it.

There's no dodging that conclusion.

On the other hand: Who cares? The correct response to Afghanistan misbehavior is punishing airstrikes. Forever if necessary.

Do we want or need US boys patrolling this shithole forever? This shithole where rape of young boys is not only tolerated, but openly celebrated?

I don't.

A senior U.S. official said Friday the United States and the Taliban have reached a truce agreement that will take effect "very soon" and could lead to withdrawals of American troops from Afghanistan.

The official said the agreement for a seven-day “reduction in violence” to be followed by the start of all-Afghan peace talks within 10 days is “very specific” and covers the entire country, including Afghan government forces. There were indications a formal announcement could come as early as the weekend.

The official, who was not authorized to publicly discuss the matter and spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the Taliban had committed to a halt in roadside and suicide bombings as well as rocket attacks. The official said the U.S. would monitor the truce and determine if there were any violations.

Should the Taliban comply, the "reduction in violence" agreement would be followed by the signing of an agreement that would initiate peace negotiations that include all Afghan sides.

posted by Ace at 01:05 PM

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