Two Nato countries veto Afghan reinforcements

The Netherlands and Denmark today announced a block on sending more troops to Afghanistan unless its election run-off creates a legitimate government and until President Barack Obama decides on a new strategy.

Dutch Defence Minister Eimert Van Middelkoop said his country, with 2,160 troops in Afghanistan, is awaiting the final election results “because the legitimacy of the Afghan government is key,” as well as a decision by the Obama administration.