Two Quick Thoughts on Afghanistan

1. The Afghan government had over 400,000 soldiers-- an insane amount for such a small country-- and the Taliban had only about 58,000.  That's nearly a seven to one numerical advantage without even factoring in superior weaponry and an air force that flew unopposed.  The government could certainly have defeated the Taliban if they had wanted to.
2. The occupation of Afghanistan was ostensibly a NATO operation, but I didn't see any European countries raise their hands and offer to take over the responsibility.