Topic: The Taliban

Opinion: Russia's payback

NATO disrespected Russia for too long. Now the Alliance must regroup.

Letters to the Editor

Readers write about poppies in Afghanistan, warehouse shopping clubs, and video-gaming as sport.

World

Stronger U.S. role likely in Afghanistan

The Pentagon wants more control over NATO there in light of Taliban resurgence.

Pressure builds on Pakistan's Musharraf

The ruling coalition has vowed to move forward with an impeachment process against the president. Even some of the unpopular leader's allies are urging him to quit.

Can Pakistan clean up its intelligence agency?

The US, India, and Afghanistan are pressuring the government to root out pro-Taliban agents.

U.S. Marines ordered to remain in Afghanistan

The US and NATO struggle to maintain troops even as the Taliban reclaim southern and eastern Afghan provinces.

Letters to the Editor

Readers write about power deregulation, interfaith talks, Taliban in Pakistan, and lawyers.

World

Taliban's war of words undermines Afghanistan's nation building

A successful propaganda campaign has weakened public support for the Afghan government and its international backers, according to a new report from the International Crisis Group.

The Monitor's View: Obama and McCain as neo-neocons

They compete over who can better attack Al Qaeda in Pakistan – unilaterally.

U.S. military strike in Pakistan kills Al Qaeda weapons expert

The attack has raised concerns in Pakistan about the United States' increased willingness to take unilateral action in the war on terror.

Former US official accuses Afghan government of stymying anti-opium efforts

Thomas Schweich charges that President Karzai is protecting drug traffickers within his power base, and says the US Defense Department and some NATO allies have also resisted antiopium efforts.

Leader's visit to help set U.S.-Pakistan priorities

Prime minister Gilani arrives at the White House Monday. Likely topics: counterterrorism and democratic stability.

Inflation adds to Pakistan's troubles

Rising prices and a falling stock market have sparked protests in recent weeks, increasing the pressure on a government already facing militancy, political discord.

Military revisits Afghanistan plan

A key component is likely to be more troops, but the strategy must go beyond that, experts say.

Obama's tour of Afghanistan renews debate about US role

The presidential candidate met officials and soldiers here this weekend at the start of a global tour.

The Monitor's View: Behind Afghanistan lies Pakistan

The US is wising up about Pakistan, where Al Qaeda and the Taliban find safe haven.

Guantánamo video, deserter case draw Canadian criticism of U.S. ties

On Tuesday, a US Army deserter was deported. An unrelated but simultaneous video release showed a Canadian Gitmo detainee taken at age 15 crying, 'Oh Mommy!'

The Monitor's View: The fading debate over an Iraq pullout

Events on the ground could cause Obama or McCain to carry out similar strategies.

Afghanistan accuses Pakistani intelligence of aiding cross-border terrorism

The heightened political tensions between the two allies in the war on terror has prompted US presidential hopefuls to focus on improving Afghanistan strategy.

Afghan fight drawing foreign jihadis

They seem to be moving from Iraq to Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Outpost attack in Afghanistan shows major boost in militant strength

Insurgents' ability to breach the post in Kunar Province is seen as a significant escalation in the fight.

Deadly U.S. Army outpost assault in Afghanistan underscores growing threat

The attack focuses international pressure on neighboring Pakistan, where many of the militants are said to be based.

World