Repeated Afghan strategy of President Donald trump, which is a turning point in its initial views, is, in fact, tightening tried, tested and failed formula.

This is Pakistan (which remains the same and the favorite scapegoat for the failures of the US in Afghanistan). It is a futile India, more symbolic than material. And it gives carte Blanche to the military to pursue what is now a useless war without end against a faceless and stateless enemy.

Pakistanis will criticize the Afghan strategy of President trump on three points.

First, 16 years and $1 trillion, which could make another 4 thousand American troops, when 100 thousand American troops have not reached result. Second, introduction of India in Afghanistan is a recipe for war with Pakistan and India towards Afghanistan. Third, Afghanistan needs more regional diplomacy, which includes Pakistan, Iran, China and Russia than anything mentioned above.

Although President trump said he recognizes the "contributions and sacrifices" of Pakistani people, who "suffered greatly from terrorism and extremism", he also accused Pakistan of "continued detention of criminals and terrorists." Such talk is counterproductive, considering the sacrifices of the Pakistani people (more than 60 thousand soldiers and civilians) and the fact that today Pakistan is probably the only Muslim country that has conducted a successful anti-terrorist struggle.

As a key regional player, Pakistan is today more opportunities for maneuver in foreign policy. Pakistan is closely cooperating with China and Russia, as well as with the Central Asian republics, being the center of growing regional economic ties. U.S. influence today is greatly diminished.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, Pakistan could see a small glimmer of hope. President trump has clearly stated his definition of victory in Afghanistan, which he reduces to "prevent the capture of Taliban Afghanistan." So when President trump talks about "a fair and sustainable result," it's like a mantra of President Nixon's "peace with honor" just before leaving Vietnam.
sections: Politics, Accidents