Is America Ready for a Peace Deal in Afghanistan?
The Trump administration appears to be following its predecessor in imagining a political endgame in Afghanistan. It is focused on military efforts to try to turn the tide of the conflict, in hopes of negotiating from a stronger position. But if all sides continue to seek military advantage, negotiations will never commence.
Apr 27, 2018 The National Interest
A Competing Risks Approach to Security Sector Assistance for Fragile States
How should the U.S. balance the risks of cooperating with troubling governments against the risk that ISIS or similar groups could gain strength in these fragile states?
May 2, 2016 Lawfare
In Afghanistan, the Glass Is Still Better Seen as Half Full: A Response to Gary Owen
While things are certainly not “great” in Afghanistan, there are more reasons for hope than many had expected to see by this point in the transition from a large U.S. presence to a greatly reduced one.
Aug 24, 2015 Lawfare
Afghanistan After the Drawdown
If neither victory nor a political settlement are likely in the short term, and if complete withdrawal is unpalatable, then the United States must ensure that its support of Afghanistan remains politically sustainable.
Jul 6, 2015 Lawfare
The Foreign Policy Essay: The Limits of Small Footprints
The history of “small-footprint approaches” should be sobering. It suggests that such approaches are good at preventing allied governments from losing against rebels, but are not very good at actually winning wars.
Mar 31, 2014 Lawfare