A top U.S. general has said that tough times are ahead for Kandahar in southern Afghanistan, where thousands of U.S., NATO, and Afghan forces are preparing for an offensive against the Taliban.
General David Petraeus, head of U.S. Central Command, made his remarks on an unannounced visit to Kandahar.
"There have been tough moments here in Kandahar in recent weeks -- that is well known," Petraeus said. "And we know that there will be more tough moments in the weeks and months ahead."
Petraeus told reporters that the Kandahar offensive would not be a conventional operation.
He said troops will secure areas around the city so the Afghan government can gain footing in Kandahar and the international community can ramp up aid to improve the quality of life for residents.
Kandahar has seen a wave of insurgent attacks in recent months.
compiled from agency reports
General David Petraeus, head of U.S. Central Command, made his remarks on an unannounced visit to Kandahar.
"There have been tough moments here in Kandahar in recent weeks -- that is well known," Petraeus said. "And we know that there will be more tough moments in the weeks and months ahead."
Petraeus told reporters that the Kandahar offensive would not be a conventional operation.
He said troops will secure areas around the city so the Afghan government can gain footing in Kandahar and the international community can ramp up aid to improve the quality of life for residents.
Kandahar has seen a wave of insurgent attacks in recent months.
compiled from agency reports