A recent CNN/USA TODAY/Gallup poll finds that the American public is evenly divided on the issue of troop withdrawal from Iraq. It shows 47 percent of American favor a significant presence of US troops until they achieve the desired goals, while 49 percent favor setting a fixed timetable for withdrawal. Most Americans are pessimistic about the ability of the Iraqis to establish a stable democratic government within the next year without US assistance to help maintain order. The split is big—75 percent say no way, compared to only 19 percent who believe it’s possible the Iraqis could pull it off.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
