Richard Lugar actually said...

"The threats to U.S. national security in the region are both real and profound, but they are also largely indirect."

"I think President Karzai would understand that he's got a new chance now, if he's got 50 percent plus one vote, to become a statesman or to end up on the ash heap of Afghan history."

"I think it's important to initiate an Afghan political process as quickly as possible aimed at national reconciliation."

"We should place a high priority on improving our ability in crisis situations to work effectively with peacekeeping forces."