US President Barack Obama vowed on Monday that despite criticism that he is dithering, he will not rush a fateful decision on whether to send tens of thousands more troops to Afghanistan.“I will never hesitate to use force to protect the American people or our vital interests, I also promise you this - and this is very important as we consider our next steps in Afghanistan,” Obama told military personnel in Florida. “I will never rush the solemn decision of sending you into harm’s way. “I won’t risk your lives unless it is absolutely necessary, and if it is necessary, we will back you up. “Because you deserve the strategy, the clear mission, the defined goals and the equipment and support you need to get the job done.”