Key Democrat Urges Better Strategy for Afghanistan(Carl Levin)

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http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2009/10/11/us/politics/AP-US-US-Afghanistan.html?_r=1

The Democratic chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee said Sunday a better strategy and a firm resolve to succeed in Afghanistan are more important than a rapid increase in U.S. troops there.

Sen. Carl Levin of Michigan said U.S. plans must emphasize improving Afghanistan's army and police forces so they are better equipped to deal with the threat from the resurgent Taliban.

However, Republican lawmakers argued that President Barack Obama would be making a major mistake if he doesn't quickly answer the call for more troops.

(snip)
Levin said McChrystal's request, while important, is only one piece of what Obama has to consider. A broader plan that includes more trainers to make Afghan security forces more effective and persuading Taliban fighters to switch sides is key, he said, calling the current shortage of Afghan forces is an ''Achilles' heel.''

''The surge that will really work in Afghanistan is a surge of Afghan troops,'' Levin said.