Dude, Where's My Strategy?

By Steve Hynd

After a half dozen different reviews since taking office, and spending five months coming up with metrics that aren't, President Obama told ABC today:

I just want to make sure that everybody understands that you don't make decisions about resources before you have the strategy ready.

Huh, I thought we already had a strategy, which the President explained to the nation back in March.

No?

And then I thought we had a new strategy, unannounced, when the military changed the counter-terrorism mission Obama promised to a full-on COIN one.

No?

Jeebus. No wonder Gates wants to keep McChrystal's assessment secret. They're floundering in the dark by the sound of it. Deja-Bush all over again!

Comments

[Ron Beasley]

I wonder if Obama suddenly realizes what a now win had he has dealt himself.

[geoff]

Steve following on some of your earlier notes, re: the costs of actually getting an Afghan army or police force up to snuff, TomDispatch has a note up by Ann Jones on the chances of really doing such.

http://www.tomdispatch.com/post/175116/ann_jones_us_or_them_in_afghanistan_

All this is becoming increasingly disturbing.

[Steve Hynd]

Geoff, I read that piece earlier today and agree it makes disturbing reading. Siun at FDL has even scarier reading: McChrystal’s Power Play. Here's the thing - I don't believe McC is acting alone in challenging Obama, he has to have Saint Pet's backing. A first move in the 2012 dance, perhaps?

Regards, Steve