The Taliban needs to be convinced of a firm U.S. commitment in Afghanistan before it will negotiate a settlement, says CFR’s Stephen Biddle, and any deal will have to also involve the Pakistani, U.S…

Increased military pressure and reassurances by the United States that it will not pull out of Afghanistan in July 2011 are keys to successful negotiations with the Taliban, says CFR’s Max Boot.

Crucial to the success of the U.S. mission in Afghanistan is dealing with the country’s "predatory misgovernance," says CFR’s Stephen Biddle. Targeting U.S. contracting practices is a good place to s…

Pakistan’s latest moves to exert influence in Afghanistan, including possible brokering of talks with militant Taliban allies, could pose difficulties for U.S. stabilization efforts, says CFR’s Danie…

While senior military officials are urging support for Afghanistan operations, Afghans are fearful about the Kandahar offensive and uncertain about U.S. plans to start withdrawing troops in July 2011…