Even after withdrawal from Afghanistan, many American soldiers will be present there to protect diplomats and airports. However, it may be difficult for America to announce the end of this fight.
American soldiers will return from Afghanistan. AFP (File)
After the withdrawal of US military forces from Afghanistan, about 650 US personnel will be present there for the security of the diplomats. American officials said that a lot of the work of withdrawal of troops would be completed in the next two weeks. In addition, hundreds of US troops will likely be present at Kabul airport until September, officials said on Thursday, where they will assist Turkish forces providing security.
These soldiers will remain here temporarily until a formal security operation led by Turkey begins. The withdrawal of a large number of US troops from more than 4,000 US troops has accelerated in recent months, for which President Joe Biden has set a deadline of September 11. However, in the meantime, the Taliban has become more active, which has increased the fear that the Afghan government and its army will kneel in a few months.
Difficult to announce the end of the fight
Officials have repeatedly said that security at the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul is essential to keep US diplomatic staff in Afghanistan. However, with additional forces stationed there for the next several months, it would be too complicated for the Biden administration to declare the true end of America’s longest war.
On Friday, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and National Reconciliation High Council Chairman Abdullah Abdullah are due to meet Biden at the White House. He will also meet Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon and may meet other administration officials. About 650 US troops in Afghanistan will provide other assistance at the US embassy and airport.
US and Turkey will meet in Ankara
According to officials, Turkey has said that it is ready to provide security at the airport as long as American forces get help. US and Turkish military officials are going to meet in Ankara this week to finalize this arrangement. However, on Wednesday, General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that no written agreement had yet been reached with Turkey regarding airport security.
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