Brussels Calling

After President Obama's speech on the way ahead in Afghanistan last night, NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen today threw his support behind the U.S. strategy. According to a statement on the Alliance Web site, Rasmussen "confirmed" plans to send "at least 5 000 more soldiers and probably more" from NATO members and partners to Afghanistan during 2010. (The statement makes no mention from where these troops would come.)

Speaking before the Senate Armed Services Committee this morning, Defense Secretary Gates said Washington is seeking 5,000-7,000 additional forces from NATO.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who also testified today, said she will speak with Alliance foreign ministers in Brussels tomorrow to discuss details.