The 17 year long battle of Afghanistan; reappearing game changers; Russia, Taliban and U.S.

The Taliban is rising again but extending American troops in Afghanistan in 2018 after 40 years of war with Russians/Americans is not the solution.  John Nicholson, Nato Commander, believes the only way to suppress the Taliban is increasing Amerian forces.  in 2013-2014, America has 130,000 troops in Afghanistan.  Now they only have 16,000 and most are special forces.  There is intense training by Americans to teach aircraft training, Taliban bombing & missile strikes.There are 2 major elite training facilities by the Americans who teach Afghan military how to fight on the ground as well.  However, England who used to fight in this country 150 years ago called it the "great game," eluding that this land is unwinnable. Afghanistan has been a pawn between Russia (1979-1989), Afghan Civil War (1992-96) and America (2001-2018) and the loyalty in the region is somewhat fractured between local tribes & global strongholds.  The U.S. presence in Afghanistan may prove a hindrance.  China/US are competing for nickel, copper, cobalt & oil access.  Right now, the Taliban has the advantage.  They are being Russian supported on the border of Pakistan and Russia is providing tanks and military supplies illegitimately by the U.S. viewpoint.  In reality, there are casualties on all sides & the poppy seed growers are the only ones profiting.