German Defence Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg said Monday that the fighting situation in Afghanistan was "longer and harder" than in previous winters.
However, progress could be seen over the past months, he said during an unannounced visit to Afghanistan, DPA reported.
Guttenberg stressed it was important to get a clear picture of the realities on the ground, especially against a background of the debate over extending Germany's mandate in Afghanistan.
Guttenberg, who arrived Monday at a German camp in the northern province of Kunduz accompanied by his wife and the premiers of the German states of Lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt, said supporting the troops was especially important in the run-up to Christmas.
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