THE United Nations is preparing for when the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan is complete.

Talks are being stalled by President Hamid Karzal, who has refused to sign the security deal brokered by the US until after the presidential election in April, when it is possible he could be replaced.

Meanwhile it is alleged he is holding secret peace talks with the Taliban.

The Afghan National Army trained by NATO troops (mainly United States) total about 260,000, with another 100,000 Afghan police funded almost entirely by members of the United Nation at a cost of $4 billion per year.

The tangled webs being woven around the withdrawal of foreign troops, by President Karzal could end with the Taliban biding time until they can return to their previous position in power.

The outlook is perilous.

J Beisly, Osprey Close, York.