EU unites over Dutch pull-out

European governments were at pains on the 22 February 2010 to insist that the collapse of the ruling Dutch coalition and the anticipated decision to pull 2,000 troops out of Afghanistan in August 2010 would not change their strategy and support for the Nato military operation.

Yet European governments with troops in Afghanistan are painfully aware that public opinion is not on their side, and that voters are increasingly sceptical about the benefits of engagement and the likelihood of stabilising the country enough to withdraw with dignity.

ESO: Background information: Dutch government collapses over Afghan troop mission http://www.europeansources.info/record/dutch-government-collapses-over-afghan-troop-mission/

---