From NATO: we must stay in Afghanistan as long as necessary, and we will stay as long as necessary. Let no one think that a run for the exits is an option. It is not.

My view on this is very clear. What we are doing now is very difficult and very costly. But if we were to walk away, we would pay a much higher cost, and soon. Terrorists in Afghanistan, and attacking from Afghanistan. Profound instability in Pakistan, and in Central Asia. Extremists from around the world emboldened. This is simply not a future we can allow to happen. (photo: SACT/USJFCOM)