But McBride suggests there's one other major factor in the calculation that has little to do with politics and more to do with the simple task of helping a spouse at a critical time.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

One factor that will influence this calculation is the size of the African force, and what sort of Western support it can get to overcome current deficiencies in funding, supplies and training.

BBC: Mali conflict: Rewriting the UN's best made plans

For instance, Toledo failed to factor in added fuel costs into its savings calculation.

WSJ: Trash Overhaul Stalls in Toledo