Ex-US generals say Afghan exit to prove disastrous

KABUL policy with former generals who emphasized on troops’ presence in the war-torn country.

According to Voice of America, the meeting was attended by Brig. Gen. Kimberly Field, former senior advisor to the commander of Operation Resolute Support, retired general and former vice chief of staff of the U.S. Army Gen. John Keane and a military expert, Colin Jackson as witness guests.

The source said these figures opposed withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan.

The US senators asked different questions about ongoing peace talks with the Taliban, withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan, achievements of the past two decades, roles of neighbors in Afghanistan and others.

They said the Taliban should become part of a political partnership and achievements made about women’s rights and other areas should be protected.

About withdrawal of US forces, Gen. Kean said, “It would be a disaster, Afghan forces who are already under some mental pressure would think that the US has betrayed them, all achievements would be lost and Daesh and Al Qaeda would get huge benefit of the opportunity.”

Taliban and other terrorist groups would celebrate withdrawal of US forces as their victory and would use it as a campaign for war and a domestic conflict would begin, he said.

Gen. Field also called withdrawal of US troops a disaster and said, “The current government would collapse, warlords would take over and we will lose many things, many women and children get education there, all achievements would be lost in remote areas.

Military expert, Colin Jackson said the enemies of the US would expand their influence after withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.

“Foreign enemies of the US will pour into Afghanistan, Iran would push ahead its proxy fighters, Pakistan will also increase its influence, Russia will also come,” he said.

The meeting criticized Pakistan’s support and protection for Taliban and said Pakistan should stop backing the insurgent group.

Gen. Kean also said Washington should strongly support the coming new government in Afghanistan and work together with it.

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