Factors outside Obama's control to shape Afghanistan campaign

Whether U.S. President Barack Obama's pledge to redouble the U.S. commitment to the war in Afghanistan finds eventual success will depend on a number of external factors -- including cooperation from Afghan President Hamid Karzai, support from NATO allies and competence among Afghan's security forces. In outlining a timetable for withdrawal, Obama has established criteria for success that will largely hinge on the Afghan government's ability to root out endemic corruption and train security forces to fight a Taliban weakened by U.S. soldiers. Though NATO has pledged to support the mission with at least 5,000 more troops, most European leaders are wary to pledge any further blood and treasure to the unpopular war. The New York Times (12/1) , The Washington Post (12/2) , The Independent (London) (12/2)