NATO’s recent offensive in Southern Afghanistan was a “significant success” that has driven Taliban insurgents from their positions and opened the way for development, said British Lt. Gen. David Richards, commander of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force, crediting the teamwork of Afghan, NATO, and coalition forces. The two-week offensive, known as Operation Medusa, has paved the way for the “reconstruction and development” that will bring a “long-lasting security,” added Richards in a statement. The end of Medusa also marked the beginning of a new one, dubbed Operation Mountain Fury, which involves 7,000 coalition forces in the central and eastern provinces.
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.
