If he's refering to the British, Canadian & Dutch armies slogging it out in the South then he's an idiot. If he's refering to those cowering in the North of Afghanistan he has a point. However I seem to remember when I was in the Army you kept OPSEC secret. I realise the guy is a politician and QED unlikely to be the sharpest knife in the box; but you would think some military training would rub off on a "Secretary of defence".

John Gallagher, London, England

It's upsetting to see Americans, Canadians, British and Dutch tearing at each other over Mr Gates comments. These countries are long-time allies, not enemies.

Nor is the real enemy here the Taliban. Unpleasant as they are, the Taliban are just defending their own country and their own loathsome way of life from foreign invasion - and will very likely continue to do so for generations.

The real enemy here is the Bush administration, whose display of arrogance, brutality, kidnapping and torture, have temporarily made America the most hated country in the world.

But Bush will go soon enough. And America, Britain, Canada and Holland will still be friends, long after the neo-cons are a despised footnote in the history books.

Dave Morgan, Portree, Scotland

Some interesting statistics for you:
Troop numbers per country:
US 15038
UK 7753
Germany 3155
Netherlands 1512
Canada 1730

Population:
US 303,232,774
UK 60,587,300
Germany 82,251,000
Netherlands 16,402,414
Canada 33,148,682

And therefore the troops in Afghanistan as a percentage of the country's population:
US 0.0050%
UK 0.0128%
Germany 0.0038%
Netherlands 0.0092%
Canada 0.0052%

So who's making the biggest contribution per capita then?

Troop figures taken from here:
http://www.nato.int/ISAF/docu/epub/pdf/isaf_placemat.pdf

Ian, Barton upon Humber, UK

Awful comment but still not a patch on Big Chief Dancing Fool in the Gulf.

Dave, Auckland, New Zealand

Has any one heard the saying power corrupts. Gates needs to remember that we helped to invade a Country to subdue some reported ex CIA operatives that where allegedly guilty of the 911 attack. Can someone tell me why are we fighting the Taliban ??? Why would we want to travel round the world to attack a people or a religion ? Was it because the Taliban stopped the Heroin trade?? It has been doing expetionally well since they have been subdued!!!! Last question what keeps our prisons, courts bursting at the seems and Police gainfully employed. Following the American criminal justice system EH?

Mark, Gateshead,

Bush is an absolute joke. He's screwed up his military stupidity and is now blaming everyone but himself. How many defeats will it take till the American governments realise you can't bomb people into agreeing with you?

Somebody get rid of this joker and put a grown-up in charge.

Voland, Caen, France

I certainly hope Mr Gates was speaking of the history of NATO and not specific members. However, there are nations who are attempting to skirt combat. Of note, the Brits, Canadians, Dutch, Estonians and Poles just off the top of my head are engaged in combat regularly. While there isn't much talk of other nations. And several non-NATO members pussyfoot around to keep their soldiers safe from any harm so as not to offend the Islamic world and supposedly hazard an attack on their own countries, Sweden and Finland to name a couple.
1812 started due to infringing on free trade and the impressment of US sailors into the Royal Navy and that war has little bearing on the current "unpleasentness Mr. Doherty. Thanks for inspiring our National Anthem though.
I highly doubt the troops who are doing the fighting, feel the same way as Mr. Gates. After 22 years of military service, I know I don't. Vent your anger on Gates, not the country he currently resides in.

Mark, Westminster, US

RE: Phil in Newcastle
Actually, 1812 witnessed tremendous American victories, in both small encounters and large massed battles, by American irregulars and fencibles against both your omnipotent Navy (Connecticut and Baltimore) and experienced Army (North Point and New Orleans). I use those adjectives in compliment, not in jest, believe me. But be advised that the search and destroy missions used throughout the Chesapeake really mirrored the atrocities committed in the Penninsular campaign and were completely unexpected by the American colonists, many of whom still bore intense admiration and connection to England.
I am grateful for allies and friends, and since WWII Britain has certainly been an ally. But I think that even the British people would want to see better performance than that evidenced by their Army at Basra in Iraq or Musa Qala and the rest of the Helmand Provice in Afghanistan.

Justin Kayatin, Bristol, PA, USA

It is now patently obvious that the lunatics have taken over the Whitehouse, slagging the Allies off and then expecting to be helped in the disasterous foreign policies they persue, it is time that the rest of the world woke up to what they are being pushed into before these nutters running the USA get us all into another war with Iran. How in in the world the American public can continue to actually vote for these war criminals is beyond me. REPS , DEMS. are trying to outdo one another in their eagerness to bomb the crap out of Iran, no wonder the world look's at the USA as if it is a third world country with politicians like that.

waine UK, merseyside, UK

On some points made that the Dutch have experience in UN missions and therefore are "better" than US troops et al.
Granted, the Dutch are now doing a great deal. However, at Srebrenica, they AND the vaunted UN failed. They violated the Law of Armed Combat, desering unarmed civilians to be murdered by the Serbs.
Ironically, it was muslims that were murdered and the US and NATO went in to do what the UN and EU couldn't do in their own back yard. And help the muslims.
So, enough of the vitriol. Gates made clumsy remarks and Chertoff certainly makes plenty of gaffs.
The troops on the ground doing the daily work don't agree with what politicians say for the most part and I know I don't agree with Gates. I"m a veteran and still serving. Those in the rear with the beer, heres to you, you're lucky if you never have to see combat. Like the Swedes.

Mark, Westminster, US

Gentlemen and Ladies too,

My grandfather's army was contemptible, my father's contained D-Day Dodgers, you should be proud to be "Afghan Hams".

Stick out your chests, swing those arms, bags of bull, SWANK! as my lt.colonel put it.

John Camus, Colchester, UK

Yet another example of the media misquoting an American to get preciesely the reaction we see here from the US haters. I am surprised at the Times for not doing their research on this but not suprised at the willingness of fools to believe every bit of propaganda put out by unscrupulous newspapers such as the NYT.

viv, london, england

Malaya, Oman and Sierra Leone all stand as success stories of such operations, not to mention the experience the army gained in Northern Ireland.

I don't think our commanders will be up for taking many lessons on counter-insurgency from the organisation responsible for the war in Vietnam (yes, that old chestnut).

I wouldn't want to be Gates right now... it takes a brave (foolhardy?) man to say anything against the Gurkhas.

James, Nottingham,

Canada has 1700 troops helping the US and has lost 79 soldiers in action. The UK has 7700 troops and has lost 81. A high price for a small country. Maybe every American should be given a maths lesson so they can understand these countries commitment to the US war. Canada should get out now if not wanted by Gates and the White House.

Trevor Marshall, Port Hope, Ontario, Canada

Can someone explain to me why the English whinge about Americans 365 and they do not even flinch but if an American dares to give the English even the slightest bit of criticism you go off the deep end?

You are not an "Allie" of the US. You a friend of convenience, trying in every way to stay relevant in a world that has past you by a long time ago.

J , Taipei , Taiwan

What a blast, to be Canadian! Or is it Canadien? Anyway, to sit in comfort for 200 years protected by you-know-who while posing as a "peacemaker" (i.e., freeloader) and then, at the slightest whiff of criticism, joyously get one's panties in a twist by deliberately cloaking oneself in synthetic offense.

I love manufacturing moral umbrage as well as any mediocrity from Quebec, so I think I'll move to Canada. I hear that the health system is also great - if you get sick you just drive across the border to Buffalo or Montpelier for treatment.

And permit to also congratulate my impending countrymen (or is it "countrypersons" up there?) on achieving the significant monetary milestone of a dollar finally, after two centuries, being worth a dollar.

Will I now be hauled in front of a human rights commission in some God-forsaken snowdrift?

John, San Diego, CA

Eric, Perugia, Italy - thats because the US spend more on Defence than they do on education - oh and so do we brits as well Knowwhatimeanman!

Freedom, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

".......we dont fight wars to win" - Chris, Tampa, USA

"I'm reminded of that multi-volume set of famous Canadian military victories of the 20th Century. " - Ed, Los Angeles, USA

Superb. Chris from Tampa stating the absolute bleeding obvious (as deftly pointed out by Laframboise) and poor old Ed vying for the wooden spoon of no military victories at all with a country (Canada) whose soldiers buy and sell their woeful American counterparts time and time again.

Ian, London, England

Me , being Dutch and having seen last week two Dutch soldiers being sacrified for the so-called anti-terrorist war am more than angry and do not at all support the point of view of the "expert" ?? secretary Mr. Gates. I would advise him to have a look and see for him self what it means to fight under those very difficult circumstances. Not for our own nation's cause but for the sake of other, less specified ideals.

Ed, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Ed Wichers, Almere, the Netherlands

Ah I see the person below has just proved to the rest of us exactly why America should be left to it's own devices. When it's not picking the fluff out of it's navel and kicking it's feet wondering what to do about mounting foriegn debt and reliance on external oil. It gets bored, wakes up grumpy, kicks over all the sandcastles and picks a fight with anyone who hasn't got bigger muscles or a better dad.

How childish can a country be, asking for help from others for a war of it's own making, then whinging on about the help delivered. If your that fantastic and your weapons are so perfect, finish it yourself? To say you could have finished Vietnam with a nuke, Is to highlight just how you wish to win others hears and minds... i.e. not at all. You would rather bomb the indiginous population back to the stone age, or better yet wipe them out completely, then you have nothing to worry about.

Seen Starship Troopers? Sums up American foreign policy nicely. Pointless wars, boys with toys.

Lewis, London,

Perhaps our "Counter-Insurgency" is actually good. Afterall, the UK - along with Europe have had many more over centuries, before the US was ever discovered. As many people have written, we have won many wars too. Our intelligence does not lie to us, to wage war, so we may be doing good. Just because things aren't going how Mr Gates wants them to be, he spits his dummy out and throws his toys out of the pram. We didn't wage this war, the American's did. Then they say NATO should be involved. NATO obliges. Then they have the gall to lambast the tactics/abilities of their "allies". I do not think the US will get much help much more. Prolonged wars, friendly-fires with poor excuses (not to mention that the US do not allow their troops to be taken to court elsewhere). The US is a "special" country for sure.....and for all those who say "Bush/Gates does *not* represent us all"...well how come Bush had a 2nd term in power then? Someone must have voted for him....

Harm, Newcastle, UK

Mr Gates has a bit of a nerve. The problems in Afghanistan are largely down to the USA. The original invasion of Afghanistan had some justification, had the support of the Afghans, who had no love for the Taliban, and some clear realistic aims. However, Mr Bush, in his infinite wisdom and in desperate need of something to get the home crowds cheering, ahead of his re-election campaign, decide a conventional war against Iraq made better PR than the slow, patient task of providing the new government in Afghanistan with the time and security it needed to effect lasting improvements. How wrong could you be? In Afghanistan we had support of most of the people, few of whom loved the Taliban.The task was feasible if difficult. However, Bush diverted attention and resources to Iraq – on totally false pretences – and this allowed the Taliban to reassert itself. Hence today’s problems. The US is lucky to have any allies who are prepared to stand alongside them in Afghanistan.

Kevin Miller, Tonbridge,

What makes the US think they will win in Afghanistan when the Russians could not. The Russians were far more brutal and lost.

The rest is the same, a puppet regime in Kabul, lawlessness in the hills, poor people being victimised and mass refugees.

Before you embark on a military action you should look at history, the afgan is a very proud person and you will no doubt lose.

No point in blaming everyone else for your stupidity and lack of research.

joe, Edinburgh, Scotland

The yanks have always thought that they won both world wars when in fact the concensus in the UK is that the yanks only came in when they knew which side was going to win.

we always get the reply of "You'd all be speaking German if it wasn't for us!" In fact they were so confident that they were invincible that they thought that they could take on anything including Vietmnam.

A Major friend in the British army tells me that in Basra the British are controlling everything then suddenly a US tank comes in and blasts a car with an Iraqi family out of the road becasue they were TOO CLOSE MAN!!!

Oh the yanks have got a lot to learn. And they wonder wihy people don't like them

David, Madrid,

15 Jan 08

Lets not let one politician loose tonge muck up what we are doing togeter. All of us old soldiers know that they only hurt not help the military that actually do the fighting.
Myself (airborne) 1963 to 66 have a deep respect for the British military.
What I would like to know having a military background is-
Whats with the French Legionnaires?
They had one of the best fighting armies and here in the US I havn't heard of them anymore. Are they all gone or are there politicians a thorn in there side also

Walter, Palmetto, US. Florida

It would be ludicrous to suggest that Americans don't have their faults. In many respects, the US is the 800-pound gorilla at the party. It isn't necessarily hostile to the wants of others, but neither is it especially interested. It has the luxury -- because it's the biggest kid in the neighborhood -- of focusing on what it wants.

People from other countries are understandably annoyed with this attitude; but before tearing the flesh from the bones of the nearest American, I think they might examine their own histories. There was a time when England occupied the same heady heights, and suffered no small amount of the same withering criticisms. Before that, there was Spain ...

For those who truly hate the US of A, I think this may be the century when the Far East comes into its own and your wishes are fulfilled. After suffering the hubris of America for so long, perhaps you'll enjoy the hubris of China better.

Mike Frazier, Fayetteville, AR, USA

Weren't British soldiers killed by inexperienced American pilots ie pilots with very few hours of flight in Afghanistan several months ago?

Daniel Fernandes, Middle England,

arik, israel is not allied to the united states, it is dependent on the united states (not to mention selling arms to china). there is a big difference.

and we've never blown up a u.s. warship (despite being on the receiving end of god knows how many blue on blue incidents). it's not as if there is a competition running to be the "best friend" here, but your comment is utterly ridiculous. israel has never done anything to help the u.s. militarily. it's just take, take, take. saudi arabia has been a better ally than israel.

I'm not sure about the u.s. constantly ridiculing the french for running away, though. if not for the french, there'd have been no independence. much as it pains americans to acknowledge this, the only reason america became independent was because it was such a low priority for us. canada, which was all we wanted, remained british. in hindsight, you may feel our priorities were misguided (!), but then things may change if canada ever gets its oil out!

jem, london, uk

@Haile Mohawee, Cleveland, OHIO

Your comment on this topic is very simplistic. In the Netherlands live about 16 million people, in the USA about 300 million. So it's no wonder that the USA can send more troups to Afghanistan then the Dutch.
I wonder if the Americans can do it on their own in Afghanistan, i don´t think so. The dutch apaches and F16´s also help the Americans and other allies in the war.

Peter, Zeist, Nederland

Regardless of the comments by the SecDef, please understand that most Americans truely appreciate our NATO Allies fighting together in the war on terror and we will not forget the sacrifices of every soldier regardless of national affiliation. As the terror threat effects us all, we must likewise fight it together...we've been fighting together in this war for more than seven years now and disagreements are inevitable..lets hope that our common values and security needs can superceed our self interest during current and future challenges as we've been to during the world wars of the past.

sam, nashville, USA

After 24 hours to reflect on the situation, and after reading Mr Gates explanation, I can understand where he is coming from. My post yesterday was pointing out that 77 Canadian soldiers and 1 diplomat have been killed in this conflict and that fact seemed to be forgotten. No one can deny the contribution of The United States to the freedoms enjoyed in many places around the world today. Having said this it must be remembered that all of us have the same pride in our own nations accomplishments as Americans rightly hold. Canada is a small nation militarily, no denying it, but I am sure there are many historians that could name several Canadian battle fields of note. Names such as Vimy, Passchendale, the Somme, Ortona, the Scheldt, Reichwald and Kapyong in Korea. In Kapyong Korea for example the 2nd Princess Patricias won the US Presidential Unit Citation. So let's all endevour to try and understand each other a little better. Might be less wars.

K Jeffs, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The Brits certainly don't lack experience in Afghanistan, as their history in that country can attest The slaughter of British soldiers during their retreat from Kabul by the Afghan Talibs in 1841 is not forgotten.

Michael Benfield, Los Angeles, USA

In relation to the comments about WW2 and Europe, it dissapoints me that nobody has mentioned the enormous sacrifice and effort that Russia contributed to the defeat of the Germans and its allies.

Andy, Howard Springs, Australia

argh that didnt turn out so well...u know what i mean

tim - asian, but above all british and proud

tim, london,

By admission the Americans don't "peace keep" they just wade in and carpet bomb and strafe everything, allies included.

Looks like America is on it's own the next time it looks to illegally kill innocents, although didn't stop them in Vietnam!

Ganjass, Ganjaville,

Forget the Gates issue, he is just trying to justify sending 3,500 more soldiers into Afghanistan. What we should do is stop pretending what this conflict is all about, pull out and leave Unocal to fight for the development and security of its own oil and gas pipelines.

Robdan, Toronto,

It's always amusing to see Americans accusing other nations of being over-sensitive. This from a country that has enshrined free speech in its constitution but raised uproar when a country and western girl group voiced their opinion of an elected official (e.g. Dubya). Sensitive? Yup.
Let's face it, everyone is sensitive when their country is criticised, especially when the criticism has the whiff of hypocrisy - the US army isn't exactly well known for it's clever use of tactics. Now, no one does overwhelming force of numbers like the US, but tactics? Not recently it would seem.

Ryan, Brighton, UK

Justin, new york,

just remember without the russians we'd all be speaking german (or rather the world would be just like 1984)

Johhny Righto, London, England

Yet more evidence of the anti-British bias in the USA, they never miss an opportunity to slag off our soldiers, we remember how New York used to raise blood money for IRA terrorists. Some of us remember things Mr Gates.

Ian, Manchester, England

For a country that has waded into so many smaller weaker military orientated nations, and still not got the upperhand, it is utterly contemptuous for the Americans to go public with this absolute nonsense. Is this another example of "Friendly Fire" a phrase that is difficult to seperate from the american war machine!

JamieH, Edinburgh,

mr gates,
I am worried you’re deploying US troops that are not properly trained in the way (the world outside the US works), and I’m worried we have some military forces in iraq that don’t know how to do (civilian operations of any kind).

tim, london,

The "special relationship" is all one way. The US are only interested in themselves. We are spilling a lot of British blood to help them, but will they help us if we need them? The answer is no!

James, Rickmansworth, England

Hi Eric. "Spelled wrongly"??

Hi Clive. Yes, most were Saudis, but Bin Laden and Al Qaida funded and directed them. Al Qaida was based in and protected by the Taliban-controlled country of Afghanistan which refused an ultimatum to stop giving them sanctuary prior to being invaded.

Hi Dalton. I guess the US being quick to act is a bad thing. However, I see by your comment that being slow to act is also a bad thing. Good to know.

Mark, Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana

Fine - if America does need or want ot help - let's all pull our troops out of Iraq and Afganistan - let them whine and complain then....

Simon - British and European

Simon Albion, London, Uk

Sad Sad comments from a lot of US people here.
We all have our own opinions and the right to them.
Most of you should calm down and reflect on what you said, is anger and contempt what you want the rest of us to hear from you?

Michael, Langley, BC

Another example of the absolutely brilliant US military strategy and diplomacy. It goes like this. Let's start a war in a god forsaken desert. Before we win it, let's lie to the world about weapons of mass destruction and start another quagmire in Iraq. Because we get mired down in our lies, torture and mismanaged second war effort, lets drag our allies into our first war. Then lets criticize our allies. Brilliant, absolutely brilliant!

Terry, Vancouver, Canada

I hope they do not employ locals

Britain is now known as the country that leaves there hired help in Iraq to be butchered

Nichoas Iles, Oswestry, United Kingdom

It's embarrasing to think the American public feel they have to apologise for Gates's gaffe. Don't worry cousins, we know it's not you, we're used to the crap that comes out of the whitehouse by now.

All is forgiven!

Barney, Liverpool, UK

The British army are too PC nowadays,their like community officers! The regs are anyway. They were reduced to a bit part role next to the Afghan army when the Americans re-took that Afghan village the Brits had given away a few months previous. That's embarassing.

teki, Birkenhead, U.K.

As a Canadian, I think Gates has a point. Having acknowledged that, I think he should keep his fat mouth shut. If there is a problem in Afghanistan, it has something to do with the Americans pulling out most of their initial invasion force to invade Iraq. Also, you do not publicly blather on about how your allies should be better trained to fight the enemy, when they are dying fighting the enemy. It's diplomacy 101, but like many in the Bush Administration, Gates speaks first without thinking.
As for the comments from the Americans here: no one asked you to invade Iraq; you did not bother to get U.N. support; and you let your President blindly lead you into war with your full support (I know, you guys are in shock and awe at the office of the President. We get it.). So stop whining about your involvement there. You made it, you live with it. As for bailing out Europe, you came to the war late because of self-interest. We kindly let you finish it. Thanks and get over yourself's.

Dalton, Toronto, Canada

You have to love Americans, they're like 14 years - naive and "if you're not my friend, then you're my enemy - so there"

Let me spell it out for them

You invade countries, so people attack you.

The people who attacked you originally (9/11) were, largely speaking, Saudis. But you like them, as they've got oil.

No wonder you're confused.

Clive, Epsom, England

Again, having watched all the responses to this matter, I find it fascinating that ALL the responses from the US participants are inarticulate and spelled wrongly ('typos' notwithstanding).

Could there be a basic lack of education - or is it just the ignorant who feel obliged to reply?

Eric, Perugia, Italy

I find it funny how everyone in europe is quick to put down America, bot do you forget what we have done for you over here and what we will do in the future! because of your pc ways and thinking that there are no evil people in this world i am sure we will have to bail out Europe again!!!

Jon, Sandbach, uk

Well, I suppose there's a first time for everything.

And yes, we do criticise America, but that's mainly because it sets itself up as some moral totem when in fact it is anything but.

Mike, Bristol, England,

Well, Mr Gates, you wanted allies and you've (by hook and by crook) got them. It's not their fault that they are untrained in the arts of going to war ruthlessly, wrecklessly and needlessly.

Mike, Bristol, England,

I posted a response to this outrageous matter some hours ago and have been watching, with great interest, the ripostes going on - almost entirely between very defensive US people and the Canadians. Why all this animosity between the US and Canada? Is this new or is it because the Canadians are civilised and the US, largely, are as Oscar Wilde said, so long ago, of them (paraphrasing): "They have passed from barbarism to decadence without passing through civilisation".

When the 11th September outrage took place we had US guests staying with us here in Italy and, after some decent time had elapsed, I asked, simply, "Why do you think this has happened?". Their inability to frame a response spoke volumes - How can ANYBODY not love America?

Well, America, there are MANY (and sadly many, many more by the hour) who don't like your arrogance and ignorance.

BOMBING anyone who doesn't agree with you is just childish (putting it politely) - grow up and join the world community.

Eric, Perugia, Italy

Gates should be congratulated on saying what he really thinks. That is rare in a politician. Lets make sure, however, we all remember this, when the rulers of that once great nation America try again to drag us all into supporting and prolonging one of their politically and militarily bankrupt schemes.

Julian, London, UK

Mr Gates is right. There are many who have little experience in counter-insurgency warfare.
He's not directing those comments at the UK who obviously has decades, nay centuries of experience. I would guess he is talking about Bulgaria, Albania, Lithuania and several others.

Phill , The Wirral, England

To all you codescending Americans out there, Canada joined in both World Wars well before you lot. However, carry on your tradition of picking on the small guy, which endears you to the rest of the worlds hearts.

David Leslie, Perth, Scotland

Canadians truly are some of the most HYPER sensitive people on Earth...............if you actually read what the Sec. of Defence said you's see his words were GROSSLY distorted. The most nasty and foul things are ROUTINELY said about not just the U.S. government but Americans (and American soldiers) in general all the time in the UK, Canada, etcetera and they're routinely given credence. Americans tolerate it though maybe they should put up a big,gigantic stink like Canadians are doing now. And please don't forget there're 150,000 plus American soldiers in Iraq and thousands more in Afghanistan compared to 1700 Canadian, and 7500-8000 British in Afghanistan. And the US has been doing disporportionately the heavy lifting in NATO for the past 60 years and everyone knows it ! Canada was too busy dismantling it's miltary and acting morally superior to America and Americans to be of much practical help. Grow up.

John, Boston, USA

All he said is the there is a lack of experience. When is the last time the Dutch or Canada fought a war against guerilla fighters? The nature of the enemy has changed and he was simply stating that NATO needs to change its strategies and training too.

Furthermore, Europe ans the West as a whole are naive if they think the fight against radical Islam is only an American one. The last several bombings were in Europe. Canada only avoided a bombing because of US help - but if all of you want to got it alone, that's fine. Just remember that without the USA you'd all be speaking German right now.

justin, new york,

As usual, Australia's involvement is totally ignored. Anyone would think we weren't in on Iraq and Afghanistan from the start.

This rubbish is typical of ignorant Americans who can't imagine anyone coming up to their wonderful standard.

They are so childish!!

richard, bangkok,

Why to we keep hearing that the Canadians burned the White House to the ground in 1812? Is this what Canadians are taught in school?? Canada as a country did not exist until Confederation in 1867. Trudeau eventually brought home their constitution from Westminster in 1982. It was British troops who burned down the White House and the Capitol during the war of 1812.

As for Mr. Gates' remarks, I think they were ill-advised. However, one must ask why more than 3000 additional marines are being sent into southern Afghanistan rather than to support the 12 thousand Marines operating on the Afghan/Pakistan border. They are under incredible pressure and could definitely use the additional support.

Josie, Cody, Wyoming

I say old man; whats the fuss about...Most of you have your tail feathers in a ruffel...I say this, Get the U S of A out of the U N...The U N out of the U S of A....Get our Troops out of 176 countries, stop our 'aid' grants/give aways/freebies,and send the make-up of the United States (citizens) back to their country of origin..(forefathers)..Then it can become properity of the North American Indian...(again)...PS...Throw the Canadians back as well.....

Mr Tim, San Marcos, U S of A///Ca

We must thank the Americans for one thing.

Without their support of the IRA for so many years the Britsh Army would never have had the opportunity to pick up so much counter-insurgency experience...

David, Norwich, UK

The British spent 30 + years fighting an American funded counter insurgency in Ireland, our soldiers were fighting the "War on Terrorism" before the Americans had declared it. I love it when an ignorant Amercian goes on about Terrorists to me, all I have to say is 'You people bank rolled the IRA for 30 years!' and that shuts them up pretty quickly.

J Roberts, Manchester, UK

Absolutely outrageous!

The US has no idea whatsoever as to how to conduct anti-insurgency operations. Bombing civilians from the air smacks to me of cowardice rather than good military sense apart from the long term outrage it fosters in the minds of those bombed. We Brits, have enormous experience as well as the many other NATO nations who invariably show restraint.

Kicking down doors, waterboarding, Guantanamo Bay, extraordinary rendition - the list goes on...

US grow up - forget the cowboy mentality - and get into the 21st century. Gates' arrogance, and ignorance, is breathtaking - and the US wonders why they are now despised all over the world...

Eric (former troop commander in Aden [Yemen] - 1994 to 1996).

Eric, Perugia, Italy

As a Canadian, I find the comments of the SecDef obnoxious. We fight as well as any American. Canadians have been where the toughest fighting is, while the US stays up North. The USA themselves have proven very bad at counter-insurgency warfare, going back to Vietnam. Someone must tell Gates to shutup.

john sanford, vancouver, Canada

If they (the US) know better, let's leave them to it. By not taking any advice whatsoever, they've botched up every war they've fought since WWII. (Sorry, they did win in Grenada), but they have the money and the men, so let them spend them on their own. I used to be on their side until recently.

David, Tauranga, New Zealand

Nato can not fight its way out of a paper bag. They are no match for the Russians and Chinese and clearly no match the Taleban.

Now, our farm boys have to go in and clean up their mess. Jesus, now I understand why Hitler took a few weeks to take over Europe. You all suck! Where is Napoleon?

Taboo, Folton, CA

Plymouth, Massachusetts, the list of countries that Robert Gates is complaining about should include NATO members only. Croatia isn't a member of NATO -- and proud of it!

Hey Canadians, stop whining and stop flattering yourselves. Canada is an Iceland in NATO, a country that has no capability to defend itself. You sound as deluded as the Canadian general who demanded on CBC Radio News that NATO bomb Croatia during Croatia's Operation Storm in 1995.

Shirley Jackson, Warsaw, Zagreb, Brussels, European Union

This reminds me of my Dad and his experiences in Europe as a soldier during WWII. He said when the German bombers came over, the British hid. When the British bombers came over, the Germans hid. When the US bombers came over, everyone hid!

Paul, Hong Kong,

Well well. Now we see that a nerve has been touched. There will be no "peace in our time". War is coming and will last until the Islamic Fascists have been killed or defeated. Better choose sides and hope that your country can raise a war fighting military to protect you.

Robert Bartlett, San Rafael, California

To All the Canadians and Euros (Except the Brits),

I love the way every one of you respond with such anger as if your countries have actually offered anything significant to the Afghan War. The US has begged Eurocanada to send more troops to Afghanistan for years. But what have you done? Absolutely nothing! Now we have to send 3500 more of our bravest to continue this fight because you cowards won't. And you fools have the nerve to threaten withdrawal?! Go ahead and do it. What would we be missing? A couple thousand troops who refuse to actually go into combat. Please! You guys are just looking for a reason to leave this war, and what better reason than "Mr. Gates insulted us."

To the Brits,

You are by far our closest allies and are doing a great job in Afghanistan. British troops have lots of experience in counter-insurgency (ie The Troubles). I'm sure Gates wasn't referring to any British troops. I will ignore the anti-Americanism coming from some within your nation.

James Jones , Columbus, USA/ Ohio

Secretary Gates is absolutely correct in his assessment of our useless. European and Canadian allies. Their half-hearted efforts have lead to the resurgency of the Taliban. They have refused to send the men and resources they comitted. They are nothing but a bunch of whimps.

Derek, Seattle, USA

Finally some candid feedback. What a relief. Maybe now NATO partners can work problems out in the real world as opposed to the magic world of public relations they apparently have been living in.

Emma H., Ottawa,

Seems to me that these NATO 'allies' are looking for an exit-strategy. There's no need to cause a diplomatic row if you wish to high-tail it out of Afghanistan. Just admit defeat and leave... I'm sure the French could give you some lessons.

The US is sending 3000-4000 more troops to Afghanistan soon. This mini-surge is almost larger than the Canadian and Dutch presence COMBINED! Americans will have to endure watching more of our young being killed every day while our supposed allies sit back and watch. So if you really want to RETREAT, just do it already. It makes no difference to most of us here in the States.

Haile Mohawee, Cleveland, OHIO

How dare the US raise a whisper of implied criticism against those who constantly criticize it!

How incredibly reckless and thoughtless of Gates!

He must have been raised by wolves.

gb, Austin, USA

This news item does not appear as even the smallest article on most of the major US news websites....

charlie, los angeles, USA/CA

from the guys on the ground, i must say as a Canadian Army officer serving with the British Armed forces on my third tour of Afghanistan thanks to everybody who got behind us on this one.

As Commonwealth soldiers once again fight it out in a far away distant land, some smuck of a minister throws dirt in our face. I am sure when this mission is over and we have victory in this country, the Hollywood bod's in all there glory will be ready to make up another bunch of war epics showing nothing of the other NATO forces that died here, just there good old american GI's. A part time army of kid's that spend more time blowing up my boys than killing the enemy because they like to see things go bang. We in the Army's of Canada, Australia,NZ and of Course Britain have been there all to many times before. We will get the job done when the Yanks get out of our way.

Captain S.C TREVILLION, Kabul, Afghanistan

Whoa, people!

Could we leave the reference to Canada's burning of the White House in 1814 to the pages of history, please?

The City of Boston also came to the City of Halifax's assistance after the devastating Halifax explosion in WWI.

Keep some perspective here.

Robert Miller, Halifax, Nova Scotia, CANADA

Unbelievable.. this from the country who marched headlong into Iraq without the slightest clue what they were going to do, beyond shooting and torturing people.

Owen, London, UK

It is difficult to know what Secretary Gates means.

Is he saying that non-U.S. troops in the area are culturally insensitive, lacking in locally suitable diplomatic skills, and too prone to try to handle the problem by head-on military assault rather than political means? As a Canadian who lived in the region for many years (though not in Afghanistan) and who has been shocked by how little returning Canadian troops knew about Afghanistan even after serving there, plus their complete inability to speak even a few words of any of the local languages, such a statements by Mr. Gates, if this were his meaning, actually would sound to me as if he might be correct.

If on the other hand, he was pushing for a more violent and aggressive approach; less "politics" and more naked force, then he would have to explain his position very well to convince me.

Perhaps what we need at this point, is to have some further clarification as to what exactly Mr Gates is trying to say.

Michael, Toronto, Canada

For the benefit of Mr Gates and everybody else who does not read their history.
The British Army does have some experience in counter-insurgence warfare, Northern Ireland 1968 until recently, Malay 1950 till 1960 and numerous other examples.
I believe they did reasonably well, unlike the American Army who have made a complete shambles of everything since the Korean War ended
i.e. Vietnam, Cambodia, Somalia, Iran, Iraq etc etc.
With friends like the Yanks who needs enemies.

LJS, Edinburgh,

Funny how such "tough talk" coming from a country that specializes in Molson Ice, dogsledding, and leaves their security to fools in red suits on horseback. You silly Canadiens know perfectly well that wars America is in are all politically charged. If we stopped playing political chess, Vietnam could have been handled by a nuke, and the rest of these skirmishes would not be a problem. But because our administration wants to look good in the world eye, we dont fight wars to win. So do us Americans a big favor and stop the tough talk rhetoric, because nobody really fears the Canadian military.

Chris, Tampa, USA

Because I feel like acting immature like most Candian posts in here. This is to Laframboise from Canada,

You say we bothched Iraq?

In 3 weeks the capital of Baghdad was overtaken.

Thats about 2 more weeks than it would take for the US to take over Canda.

Chris, Tampa, USA

If there is anything the Americans have to say about NATO forces of any kind, they should be doing so from the privacy of their command headquarters and through military channels. Very few Canadians I know support the Afghan mission and I live in arguably the most conservative and "American" province of all - Alberta. Canadians, Dutch and Britons have been bearing the brunt of the violence in Afghanistan, and for an American official to accuse any of them any deficiency in public is a disgrace. This situation is likely to completely discredit the idea of extending the mission in Afghanistan and portray the Harper government in a potentially fatal role as lackey to the Bush administration.
Withdraw every single foreign soldier from Afghanistan and let the "mighty" Americans solve the problem their Imperialism created.

Kevin Bruch, Calgary, Canada

Ah yes. I'm reminded of that multi-volume set of famous Canadian military victories of the 20th Century.

Perhaps Mr. Gates error was in backpedaling after stating the obvious. Our NATO friends ought to be less worried about hurt feelings and more concerned about the young soldiers who are dying as a result of poor leadership.

Blame Rumsfeld - he deserves the criticism. But be honest enough to acknowledge the similar failures of your own military leaders.

Ed, Los Angeles, USA

figure this - a few people can declare war........on the whole
the rest of us get along fine. Therefore - let us just treat them
like the morons they are - laugh at them and tell them to shut up and settle it one to one outside the kindergarten. XXXXX
to all (cept the morons) :-)

Beverley, Wton, England

I believe the outrage of us allies is ridiculous. It is just wounded pride. US allies reacted by prima donnas.

peter42y, lisbon, portugal

I find it funny how everyone in europe is quick to put down America, bot do you forget what we have done for you over here and what we will do in the future! because of your pc ways and thinking that there are no evil people in this world i am sure we will have to bail out Europe again!!!

Jon, Sandbach, uk

The fundamental problem in Afghanistan is that, after successfully ousting the Taliban backed by most of the world, President G W Bush dropped the ball and invaded Iraq. Afghanistan lost its top prioririty, America (as in Vietnam) made a whole new crop of enemies (Guantanamo, Abu Ghraib, Bagram etc.). The great coalition (and its pledges of money unravelled. And Afghanistan became a poor sister.

Al Qaeda's early successes in Iraq and propaganda victory in the Muslim world, then re-infected Afghanistan - and the huge surge of anti-Americanism world-wide gave new impetus to the Taliban & Al Q and their efforts to destabilise Afghanistan and Pakistan too.

Making Afghanistan a success was anyway an immense problem, but 'Iraq' has meant wasting near 7 years of occupation. Lack of properly trained US ground troops meant use of air power with its inevitable collateral civilian deaths.

So G W Bush has dragged failure from the jaws of victory.
A discouraged NATO has to reverse this!

dipconsult, Aquitaine, France

If the US government thinks it has the capacity above all to capture not only a country but the hearts and minds of its people then so be it but I see few examples of this in its c.v.

BRedfern, Krkso, Slovenia

I would like to know whether Gates has any combat experience and if so in what rank.It is already evident that he has no experience of international diplomacy. British infantry training and know how when it comes to insurgency is probably the worlds best. What we lack is decent equipment , decent accommodation for families, fair pay and a classless promotion structure.This has led to low morale and a haemmorhage of our best soldiers from the army. I served for two years but never saw combat. I would not presume to criticise those who had that experience.

g.o.edwards, chester, u.k.

With the lack of will shown by some of our NATO "partners" - such as the Germans not allowing their troops out after dark, and othe ludicrous approaches to shoulder all the work on to the British, the Canadians, the Danes and the US, it is not surprising the US is not exactly complementary about NATO - neither have we been, with our constant, and unheeded demands that other NATO countries play their part instead of hiding behind British troops.

NATO needs to start living in the real world, and meet its commitments, rather than relying on a small core of countries who are prepared to meet their obligations to the organisation.

Peter, London, UK

"UK the "Closest ally" of the US? NO WAY

Israel holds that position under the Bush administration."

Err no. To describe the relationship between the US and Israel as an 'Alliance' is to abuse the word. The relationship is entirely one way and the USA gains nothing from it.

Calum, Steòrnabhagh, Albainn

For a country struggling to find friends on the world stage, angering our closest (only?) ally with insulting, unqualified statements is hardly going to help the US cause.

We didn't want the war in the first place, Mr Gates, so why don't you fly in and fight it yourself?

Mike, Bristol, England,

Of course, the Americans, generally speaking, have always just relied on massive firepower in an attempt to achiev anything and make up for their usual incompetency. They just blast away at anything no matter whether they are killing innocents, their own men or even those of their allies - just called "collateral damage". Therefore, Mr. Gates would naturally blame others if there is not sufficient "collateral damage" from the American point of view. No wonder the Americans sadly are so detested throughout the world; very sad really.

Rex Shore, Kathmandu, Nepal

Surely about the only counter insurgency conflict won since WWII is Malaya? Were the Americans there? No. Were the British? Yes

Mark, Ilminster, Somerset

Hah
Of course - Vietnam must have played a major part in the United States experience!!

Michelle, Dover, UK

The wording in some of the quotes is pitiful. Gates says:

"I’m worried we have some military forces that don’t know how to do counter-insurgency operations"

They're not "yours" mate, they're OURS. WE are helping you. Doesn't mean you own them.

And then the biggest shock, Patrick Mercer, who from previous news seemed to be such a hardline, frank and unwavering person - not so to the americans! -

"I would beg the Americans to understand that we are their closest allies,"

Beg??? Mercer, you've become weak.

Howard, Manchester,

the evil that usa now inflicts on soveriegn countries is quite breathtaking, even more breathtaking is the fact that Nato members bullied into supporting this neo con adminstration stand back and allow it happen and allow themselves to be insulted like this.
when will world do something about this rogue state? or when will america do something about this rogue administration?

Bobby, london, uk

Afghanistan was US problem. They built up Bin Laden, did not check who was entering their country and training in their flying schools, despite previous attempt on the World Trade Centre before 9/11 did not do anything, and finally Bush Jnr opened up a second front in Iraq, Iraq is in the break up mood , PKK is fighting war with Turkey. destabilised the region and thereby encouraged Islamic terrorists in Britain and Europe and the list grows.

Britain and Eu allies should pull out from their foreign forays and let US to tackle its problems and they will fail just as they failed in Vietnam.

Gary Smith, LONDON,

At least Gates's comments have got people talking about Afghanistan , the next step is for us all to admit that this dustbowl is not worth the nail cuttings of one Canadian soldier , I would be interested to know how many of our illustrious politicians on Parliament Hill have a son fighting in that godforsaken rockpile and I will donate $100 for every one over 0 - there's confidence for you , any Afghani with an IQ over 25 is over here working whilst our boys are over there dieing , who are the mugs?

Ed Allen, Whitby, Canada

to Ben, Miama, Florida.
We burned your White House AFTER your country invaded Canada without just cause. The US sued for piece after Britain decided to send 50,000 battle-hardened Peninsular troops to the Americas to deal with YOUR Illegal invasion.
Our brave Canadian brothers and Brits are dying in Afghanistan for YOUR cause. So stop bleating on about yet another ill-thought-out war (1812) and show some respect to the people who are HELPING you.
And you wonder why you have squandered all the goodwill you had after 911.
And the US can give absolutely no lessons to Britain about fighting insurrgencies - We won ALL of our wars. Malaya, Borneo, Aden, Kenya etc.
You treat allies like crap - don't expect them to help in the future.

Phil doherty, newcastle, UK

Maybe other countries are less experienced because we don't actively seek out conflict wherever we can, Mr Gates.

Mike, Bristol, England,

I don't have to offer in Mr Gates defence other than his statements were very much out of character for him. We Americans do appreciate the sacrifices and support NATO nations have given us. Believe me there is so much going on right now that does cause Americans shame. Apparently our government has been covering up gross violations of human rights on the part of security contractors in Iraq and Afghanistan. Now that they can no longer cover them up they claim there is no legal mechanism to hold any one responsible. We know with this administration down is up and black is white and Dick Cheney is truly frightening.

marc, los angeles ca,

Re the comment from Laframboise -absolutely correct! Although you forgot to mention that they managed to kill 17 of their own troops in the invasion of Granada.
Americans would probably have not won their war of independance if the french hadn't assisted them.
In addition it is arguable that most of the real fighting had already been done by the time the Yanks got into WW2.
To suggest that the Americans could teach particularly the Brits anything about any form of warfare is ludicrous.

Bruce , Dunstable, UK

I suggest we strap Mr Gates to the front of a NATO armoured Vehicle and let him see ,first hand, the skills of our military personnel.

M Durrans, Barnstaple, Devon UK

Mr Gates may have a point, but the US's simplistic gung-ho technique - to shoot/bomb first and ask questions later, killing and alienating large numbers of innocent civilians in the process - is hardly going to win any prizes either.

Chris K, Cheltenham, UK

If experience means killing as many people as possible in a shoot first ask questions later strategy then maybe we do lack this kind of experience.

If it means understanding the culture of a country and trying to win hearts and minds then as usual the US Army doesnt have a clue. Just like they didnt have a clue about this in their adventure in Vietnam.

Matthew, Saigon, Vietnam

The very best comment a country can make about another is that they have no experience of war.

George Sign, Nice, France

I thought the US gave Afghanistan to NATO because they couldn't cope. Silly me! Under the circumstances Gates should tell NATO their sevices are no longer required and show those wimpy Euros how real men act....Now how many Afghanis were involved in the attack on the WTC?

Jeff Larsen, Chch , NZ

It's good to see that The Times is as popular in Canada as it is in the US, and that Canadians have lost none of their doughtiness.

David Masu, Zürich,

What a diabolical statement by Mr Gates, no wonder the Americans are loosing the plot in everything they attempt. Mass killings of civillians is not the way to get them on your side. All the USA knows is to bomb anything that moves, and then expects other nations to pick up the peices, the allies should get out of America's disasterous conflicts and leave them to it.

waine UK, merseyside, UK

Perhaps Mr Gates is right, NATO isn't structured for piecemeal bush wars. Perhaps it's time to dismantle this Cold War dinosaur and close all the US airbases, listening posts and military facilities in Europe. The world is a different place.

Between these comments and Mr Chertoff's claims that Europe represents the biggest Islamic threat to US national security (in spite of the sterling work done by European anti-terror agencies) it's becoming quite clear that the current US administration takes it's allies too much for granted.

Steve, Leeds, UK

The Dutch public has always been sceptic about the Dutch military presence in Afghanistan. These comments will only cause the Dutch public to immidiatly demand a withdrawal.

Criticism on those that are actually helping clean up your mess is never a good idea. What an amateurism!

Evert, Shanghai, China

Astonishing! The only war the Americans have won since 1945 is the unopposed occupation of Granada. They were pushed down the Korean peninsula (there's still there), booted out of Viet Nam, self-destructed in the Iran rescue, creamed in Somalia, blown out of Lebanon, botched the iraqi invasion - and have spent more time fighting the bare-foot Taliban than it took to finish World War 2.
Now they're giving us lessons?
Rumsfeld set the mould for current US counter-insurgency -use special forces to direct B-52s onto disloyal villages. This wins hearts and minds? That's why the Taliban are coming back.
Brits, Canadians, Australians, have spent generations on UN operations and successful counter-insurgency (from Malaya to Ireland). They know what has to be done but the Americans keep pulling the rug from under them.
Maybe its time to leave the job to Mr. Gates.

Laframboise, Gatineau, Canada

Mr Gates is right...my country, Canada, and the Netherlands, does NOT have the experience in counter insurgency. Our forces are not as well trained or equiped to kill civillians, torture combatants or commit atrocities and blatant war crimes, as the Americans. No, we are traditionally peace keepers ,trying desperately to contribute our small and seemingly insignificant contribution to a loosing war we did not create or ask for...yes, we should be pulling out of the stinkhole called Afganistan and I would encourage the experienced and well trained US killers to do the job on their own, led by the vocal Mr Gates. Who should be tried for war crimes!

Canuck BC Canada, Victoria, BC Canada

Although the United States consistently mismanages its own affairs these days - whether they be economic, military or political - it finds itself unable to take responsibility for this predicament. Instead, and being somewhat arrogant by nature, it seeks to blame others, whether these be terrorists, close allies, or greedy sheikhs. And in this way, its self-made difficulties are perpetuated.

henry laycock, kingston, canada

Goodness, he expressed a concern aimed at no one country or ally. It is his personal concern about an unnamed ally, not a direct attack on the capabilities of a specific nation.

Remember that you burned our White House in 1814? Congratulations.

Benson, Miami, Florida,

What is the hoopla about?

In Afghanistan there are troops from the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Spain, Holland, France, Denmark, Romania, Australia, Norway, Latvia, Estonia, Portugal, Sweden, Czech Republic, Finland, Poland, South Korea, Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Georgia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Slovakia, Slovenia, Macedonia and Turkey, .

There is no question that troops from at least a couple of these countries have, shall we say, at best "marginal" counter-insurgency training.

What is so "outrageous" about Gates saying that??

Not a thing

Curtis LeMay, Plymouth, Massachusetts, USA

This, from a nation that subjects its alliesto friendly fire with monotonous regularity, then blames the "fog of war" to excuse its lack of expertise.

Robert Sharp, Calgary, Canada

UK the "Closest ally" of the US? NO WAY

Israel holds that position under the Bush administration.

Arik Silverman, Milwaukee, USA

Mr. Gates does not represent the view of most Americans. Here we are so weary of the misbegotten and mangled blunder of the Iraq war that we forget that Afghanistan is where the true front exists. With Al Quaida and the Taleban working to conquer Pakistan, bombs-away Cheney set his sites on Iran and throws away our weakening dollars to his pals at Halliburton and Blackwater. The sacrifices of the British and Canadians, and all the brave solders of Nato, mean nothing to him. I'm sure that he'll get his mini-me Bush to make some of statement about Gate's gaffe. Meanwhile, you guys are are dying.

John Carroll, Richmond, USA/Virginia

If Mr Gates was referring to the British or Canadian troops, he simply exposes his woeful ignorance.
If he was questioning the commitment of the Germans, Italians and (if they are part of NATO this week) the French, he is making a fair point but not a sensible one diplomatically.
Either way he is clearly out of his depth.

Furriskey, Singapore,

You know, the attitude of the US administration toward its allies and the general public is so offensive. The average citizen of the Nato countries in the "south" are capable of a modicum of research. It seems the Afghan provinces in the east of the country that the US forces have so ably pacified....are mostly former Northern Alliance strongholds....or other words places where a Taleban uprising never existed or could exist!! Perhaps if Sec. Gates lived in a country where the school system was still functional, he wouldn't make statements quite so ludicrous and easy to debunk.

Al, Saskatoon, Canada

The UK, Canada & Holland should pull all their troops out. Let the Americans solve the problems they created.

Rick Schwag, Lyndonville, Vermont

So we are not good enough ? Well, everyone here in Canada remember that in 1814, we burned your bloody White House....

Corriveau, Quebec, CANADA

Unfortunately, par for the course with this administration's foreign policy debacle. To say the Pentagon is unpolished as of late within the Secretariat is an understatement. The international peacekeepers and fighting forces involved in the unified struggle to promote a safe and peaceful existence within Afghanistan should be complimented daily for their efforts and sacrifices. As a fellow member of the armed forces, I salute their professionalism and dedicated acceptance to serve others whose governments and societies fail. This is quite simply another outrageous embarassment, my apologies to your troops and governments as an American citizen-soldier.

Aaron, Plymouth, MA, USA

So how are we to fight it? - The American way? bomb or kill innocent civilians, friendly forces? oh sorry thats hearts and minds - and this from a Nation that refused to listen to how they could of won in Vietnam - from the Nation that until 9/11, actively supported and funded the IRA - thank God we do know how and do not have to use their methods. Our guys and our Allies are doing a great job, this is just the kind of "support" they really need - if the Americans are so good at it and so expert, then leave them to it !

O.Cromwell, Jakarta, Indonesia

On Friday Mr Gates I will be standing on a freeway overpass welcoming home the 78th Canadian soldier killed in Afghanistan. As a 55 year old former Canadian soldier I take great exception to the notion that U.S. forces are somehow superior in any type of training to that of the Canadian, British or Dutch forces. If anything I would offer the opinion that due to 50 years of experience in untold numbers of UN missions would give Canadian and Dutch troops a greater understanding of how to deal with these situations. Unlike the shock and awe blow them up mentality that seems to be the norm of the United States over the last few years our troops fight when they have to and care for the innocents at all times. Pacifying a population that is cowed into obedience by force does not end an insurgency it only prolongs it.

K Jeffs, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Washington really doesn't do herself any favours, does she?
First she claims she doesn't need any help, she can do it all by herself, finds out she can't, lambastes allies for not helping, they help, and then she criticizes them.

If Canada needed an excuse to pull out, this is a perfect one.

It was already a struggle to justify this combat mission to the nation.

Insults really don't help.

It's all yours, Mr Gates!

steve, toronto, canada

Reason number 534 why we should leave southern Afghanistan.

Paul, Toronto, Canada