Troop drawdown to begin after decline in violence: Esper

BRUSSELS (Pajhwok): US Defense Secretary Mark Esper says Taliban’s proposal regarding reduction of violence has been discussed with American allies.

Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of NATO to 8,600 was being considered.

The decision to reduce the number of troops had been made in light of recommendations from US commanders in the war-torn country.

“We are confident of continuing our mission with this number,” he remarked, saying troops would start withdrawing after reduction of violence in Afghanistan.

Esper said they had consulted allies on how to reduce violence in Afghanistan. But a full withdrawal had not been discussed, he revealed.

The remarks come as significant progress has been made in talks between the United States and Taliban on reduction of violence in Doha.

sa/mud

Views: 0