SIGAR

It would be wonderful if the U.S. could create a liberal future for Afghans who desire to escape the past. But that task is beyond Washington’s capabilities and cannot justify expending more American lives and monies.

Afghanistan is now even more dangerous than it was a year ago. The Taliban now controls more territory than at any time since 2001. Despite pouring $113.1 billion into Afghanistan, Washington has surprisingly few sustainable, long-term benefits to show for it.