In the end, the Iraqi leadership did not try to get an agreement through their parliament that would have made possible a continued U.S. military presence after December 31. Maliki was just too fearful of the political consequences. Most Iraqis wanted us gone.
Gates discusses the Iraqi leadership's reluctance to extend U.S. military presence due to political fears.
Share
More from Robert Gates
the only way I could get significant new or additional equipment to commanders in the field in weeks or months--not years--was to take control of the problem myself through special task forces and ad hoc processes.
My staff and I have learned that it was nearly impossible to get accurate information and answers to questions such as, 'How much money did you spend?' and, 'How many people do you have?'
I think there is a cost. I think it does provide a basis for radicalization in the region.
He's going to insist on occupying all four of the eastern provinces of the Donbas.
Other voices in this conversation
