The Taliban maintain the illusion of success (at least among themselves) by killing and bribing more Afghan police, soldiers, and leaders. Back in Pakistan (Quetta, Baluchistan,southofHelmand,andKandahar) the Taliban leadership knows better. Areas of Taliban influence are shrinking and the number of Afghans actively resisting or organizing militias and fighting the Taliban are increasing. Most Afghans do not see the Taliban as religiously inspired nationalists (as the Islamic radicals view themselves) but depraved hired guns for the drug gangs.
And the idea that we missed a grand opportunity to cut a deal with these depraved thugs is ludicrous.
We hammer the Taliban. The Taliban leaders know they are getting hammered. Our Left believes we can't beat the Taliban.
Is it any wonder the Taliban think God is on their side?
Seriously, people. It should be embarassing to think of giving up to these guys.
