A new report from the Congressional Research Service provides an extensive overview of the U.S. war in Afghanistan, and the choices that confront U.S. policy makers.
“The U.S. Government faces key strategic and operational decisions about its further engagement in the war in Afghanistan. These may include clarifying U.S. national interests in Afghanistan and the region; defining clear strategic objectives based on those interests; determining which diplomatic, economic, and military approaches to adopt, and what resources to commit to support those approaches; prioritizing ‘Afghanistan’ versus other national security imperatives; and helping marshal a coordinated application of international efforts.”
See “War in Afghanistan: Strategy, Military Operations, and Issues for Congress” (pdf), January 23, 2009.
Other noteworthy new reports from the Congressional Research Service include the following (all pdf).
“Homeland Security Intelligence: Perceptions, Statutory Definitions, and Approaches,” updated January 14, 2009.
“Israel and Hamas: Conflict in Gaza (2008-2009),” January 15, 2009.
“Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty: Background and Current Developments,” updated January 28, 2009.
“The Special Inspector General (SIG) for the Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP),” January 14, 2009.
“Amendments to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act Set to Expire in 2009,” January 6, 2009.
Russia currently maintains nearly 5,460 nuclear warheads, with an estimated 1,718 deployed. This represents a slight decrease in total warheads from previous years but still positions Russia as the world’s largest nuclear power alongside the United States.
The stakes are high: how we manage this convergence will influence not only the pace of technological innovation but also the equity and sustainability of our energy future.
We’re launching an initiative to connect scientists, engineers, technologists, and other professionals who recently departed federal service with emerging innovation ecosystems across the country that need their expertise.
With wildfire risk increasing and the potential for destruction along with it continues to grow nationwide, the Federation of American Scientists (FAS) today joins with other organizations to launch a new coalition, Partners in Wildfire Prevention.