The Times West Virginian

Local News

July 20, 2008

UPDATE — Mullen worries about troop withdrawal timeline

Associated Press

WASHINGTON — A fixed timetable for withdrawing U.S. combat troops from Iraq could jeopardize political and economic progress, the Pentagon’s top military officer said Sunday.

Adm. Mike Mullen said the agreement between President Bush and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to set a “general time horizon” for bringing more troops home from the war was a sign of “healthy negotiations for a burgeoning democracy.”

The best way to determine troops levels, the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman said, is to assess the conditions on the ground and to consult with American commanders.

The prime minister was quoted by a German magazine over the weekend as saying U.S. troops should leave “as soon as possible” and he called Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama’s suggestion of 16 months “the right timeframe for a withdrawal.”

Mullen, asked about the possibility of withdrawing all combat troops within two years, said, “I think the consequences could be very dangerous.”

The military buildup in Iraq that began more than 18 months ago has ended. In recent days, the last of the five additional combat brigades sent in by Bush last year has left the country.

If conditions keep improving, “I would look to be able to make recommendations to President Bush in the fall to continue those reductions,” Mullen said.

Turning attention to Afghanistan, where violence is on the rise from Taliban attacks, Mullen said expressed concern about “a syndication of various extremists and terrorist groups” in Pakistan’s tribal areas along the Afghan border that poses a serious threat to both countries.

He cited “mixed progress” in Afghanistan, but said he added, “I would not say in any way, shape or form that we are losing in Afghanistan.”

Text Only
Local News
  • Therepy Dog -ts.jpg A brighter day

    Sitting on a pink polka blanket with pink bows tied around her ears, Pebbles the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel brightens up the day of a patient at the Arbors at Fairmont nursing home.
    “I always had a dog,” said Max — who preferred that his last name not be used — to Pebbles’ human, Sharon Spevock.

    February 9, 2012 1 Photo

  • ‘New heights’ NASA’s mission

    The NASA Independent Verification & Validation Facility in Fairmont has accomplished a lot over the years, but also has a long way to go, said Gregory Blaney.
    Partnerships will allow the agency to continue to move forward.

    February 9, 2012

  • Man indicted on 14 counts of sexual abuse

    A Mannington man has been indicted by the Marion County grand jury on 14 counts of sexual abuse.
    James Edward Carpenter, 34, of 100 Parkview Drive, Apt. 101, Mannington, is charged with four counts of first-degree sexual abuse and 10 counts of sexual abuse by parent, guardian or custodian.

    February 9, 2012

  • BB&T to remain a part of Farmington community

    Thanks to community members who made their voices heard, the BB&T branch in Farmington is staying open for business.
    The office was full of excitement and hugs Wednesday as employees and community members celebrated the news that this location will continue to service clients.

    February 9, 2012

  • Expanded airport hangar space sought

    Benedum Airport Authority members representing Marion and Harrison counties met Wednesday at the North Central West Virginia Airport for their monthly meeting to discuss plans to build and expand hangar availability.

    February 9, 2012

  • FSHS student works to start scholarship fund

    A bright smile on Kelly Horton’s face could have fooled anyone on Wednesday morning.
    In front of the Marion County Commission, the Fairmont Senior High School junior kept a strong composure as she explained why she needed help with her senior project.

    February 9, 2012

  • Marion co 911--DS.jpg It’s an emergency

    A Dalmatian was on a mission. And he was in a hurry.
    In a fire truck, the Dalmatian, Patches, rushed into Monongah Elementary on Tuesday morning while students looked on in amusement.

    February 8, 2012 1 Photo

  • MCVB and MCPARC OPENING -TS.jpg CVB, MCPARC moving to new homes

    The Convention & Visitors Bureau of Marion County and the Marion County Parks and Recreation Commission are excited to have a new place to call home.
    On Monday, both organizations began simultaneously moving into their new offices in the visitor center building directly off Interstate 79 Exit 136 at 1000 Cole St., Pleasant Valley.

    February 8, 2012 1 Photo

  • Ministers Run still looking for local control

    Following two meetings in different locations Tuesday, the Ministers Run Water Association is still looking for a way to keep its utility in local hands.
    Last week, the state Public Service Commission held a hearing in Grant Town.

    February 8, 2012

  • Man indicted for forgery, uttering, other crimes

    A Fairmont man charged with forgery, uttering and other crimes is one of 23 people named in indictments handed down by the Marion County Grand Jury in its second day of deliberations Tuesday.
    Jeremy Nathan Ferraro, 31, Fairmont, was indicted on forgery; uttering; obtaining money, property or services by false pretenses; and domestic battery, third offense.

    February 8, 2012