Robert Gates actually said...

the conditions, the improved conditions that you referred to, in Iraq have allowed for the early withdrawal of at least one brigade

Gates discusses improved conditions in Iraq allowing for troop withdrawal.

12/02/2009

More Robert Gates Quotes

We are not an occupation force. Afghans must take primary responsibility for defending their own country.

Let's not forget about contract monitors, logistical experts, and so on, to make sure that we're doing this right.

We're in this thing to win. We intend to partner for a long time to come.

We will not repeat the mistake--and we must not repeat the mistake--of 1989 and turn our backs on these folks.