PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): A former US defence secretary has underlined the need for precautions to protect the Afghan government after the exit of American forces.
Robert Gates said in an interview: “I think right now the decision that has to be made and is critical is to continue economic and military assistance, meaning security assistance, to the Afghan government.”
Speaking to CBS, he backed sitting Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s recommendations that to keep about 2,500 troops in Afghanistan to bolster the local security forces.
Even if implemented, the proposal might not make any significant difference, as the Taliban were bolstering their position, Gates believed.
The Soviet-installed government in Kabul lasted three years after the Russians withdrew from Afghanistan and halted military and economic aid to the country.
He went on to support President Joe Biden’s decision to continue extending economic and security assistance to Afghanistan even after the pullout of US troops.
PAN Monitor/mud
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