Transition in the Afghanistan– Pakistan War and the uncertain role of the great powers

The near-term future of Afghanistan and Pakistan is not going to be shaped by cooperation between the “Great Powers” – Russia, China, and the U.S. A new “Great Game” between the “Great Powers” may emerge after the U.S. and its European allies withdraw their forces and phase down military spending and aid; however, it is the way in which the U.S., NATO/ISAF, and major aid donors interact with the Afghan and Pakistani governments as they “transition” by withdrawing their forces and cutting their spending and aid that will shape events for the foreseeable future.