U.S. seeks Turkey's help in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan, Feb. 10 (UPI) -- The United States has reportedly asked Turkey to send combat troops to fight Taliban and al-Qaida militants in Afghanistan.

Turkish troops deployed in Afghanistan can only use their weapons if fired upon or threatened. However, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates has written a letter to Turkish officials asking them to either send fighting troops or redefine its military role in Afghanistan to be more proactive, the New Anatolian and Ankara reported Sunday.

The New Anatolian cited observers saying U.S. officials want Turkey to reciprocate in Afghanistan for U.S. support in Turkey's ongoing battle against Kurds in northern Iraq.