CENTCOM says Russia likely supporting Taliban

U.S. Central Commander Gen. Joseph Votel appeared before the House Armed Services Committee today to address security priorities in Iran, Afghanistan, and Yemen. The highlights:

1. Russia probably helping Taliban in Afghanistan: "I think it's fair to assume they may be providing some kind of support to them…weapons." He added: "We are at a stalemate right now. It is generally in favor of the government of Afghanistan, but stalemates tend to decline over time."
2. Iran is the greatest threat to the U.S.: "Iran's objective here is to be the regional hegemon…there's no doubt about that."
3. US needs to deploy soft power in Yemen: "We will need the Department of State and others" to address the conflict.