German Greens won't back Afghan mission

BERLIN, Sept. 15 (UPI) -- Germany’s Green Party voted Saturday to oppose keeping troops in Afghanistan.

The party held a special meeting during which the party voted against a motion to extend Germany’s participation in anti-terrorism operations. The military deployment issue will come before the Bundestag this fall.

Deutsche Welle said a counter proposal that was passed recommended Green Bundestag members vote to reject the extension of the mission.

Chancellor Angela Merkel earlier in the day publicly urged the Greens to support German presence in Afghanistan, calling it necessary to bolstering Germany’s security.