U.S. President George Bush says American and coalition forces areengaged in a tough fight in Afghanistan, and troop levels are underconstant review. VOA's Paula Wolfson has details from the White House.

President Bush speaking in the Rose Garden of the White House, 02 Jul 2008

Junewas the deadliest month for U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan sincethe U.S.-led invasion in 2001. It was also the second month in a rowthat coalition troop loses in Afghanistan were greater than in Iraq.

President Bush says he is aware of the difficulties American and allied forces are facing.

"It has been a tough month in Afghanistan, but it has also been a tough month for the Taliban," he said.

He says the coalition losses may be high because of the tenacity of the enemy.

"Onereason why there have been more deaths is because our troops are takingthe fight to a tough enemy - an enemy that does not like our presencethere because they do not like the idea of America denying safe haven," Mr. Bush added.

But the president emphasizes he is convinced thecoalition war strategy will work - a combination of support for theAfghan government and attacks on Taliban and al-Qaida elements.

TheBush administration has been urging other countries to step up theirtroop commitments to Afghanistan, with France and Great Britain amongthose offering a positive response.

There are about 31,000 U.S.troops in Afghanistan. The Bush administration has told NATO allies itplans to send more troops in 2009. But President Bush indicates somecould go earlier, saying the number remains under review.

"Weare constantly reviewing troop needs, troop levels," he said. "We arehalfway through 2008. As I say, we are going to increase troops by2009."

Meanwhile, NATO's top commander in Europe is calling forthe allies to also provide additional equipment including helicoptersand surveillance aircraft. U.S. General John Craddock also says NATOmembers should ease restrictions on where their forces may be deployedin Afghanistan.