Today, the Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence released a comprehensive assessment on Canada's engagements in Afghanistan.

A cursory review suggests that it's a well-rounded and realistic assessment. It begins by setting out three myths the Canada Afghanistan Solidarity Committee also strives to debunk:

Myth No. 1: “Canada is in Afghanistan Because the United States Wants Us to be in Afghanistan.”

Myth No. 2: “Afghans regard Canadians as just the latest in a long list of foreign invaders – to be resisted, out waited and eventually sent home.”

Myth No. 3: “Canada should focus its development in peaceful countries, where military activity is not required to deliver aid.”

The media spins these reports to suit news-cycle and political agendas. Do yourself a favour and read the report itself.