US pullout from Syria linked to Afghan reconciliation process

KABUL.

Writer and Journalist Enayatullah Kakar says the US and Russia had reached an agreement in Syria and Afghanistan.

He adds the pullout of US forces from Syria signaled Washington supported Moscow’s interest in Syria. In return, Moscow will back US efforts for peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan.

He expressed optimism the move would help establish peace and stability in the region.

Journalist and political commentator Nizamuddin Hameedi believed the US could not afford to spend more in blood and treasure across the world. Therefore, it was in a hurry to wrap up some conflicts in Syria and Afghanistan.

“On a larger canvass, it seems the US and Russia have reached a deal but time will prove if this assessment is accurate,” he commented.

US and Russian have maintained long rivalries in different geographies for decades.

President Donald Trump said Wednesday in announcing a stunning order to pull American ground forces from the war-ravaged nation.

The momentous decision to withdraw, which runs counter to long-established US policy for Syria and the region, blindsided lawmakers, the Pentagon and international allies alike.

“We've won against ISIS,” Trump said in a short video posted on Twitter. “We've beaten them and we've beaten them badly. We've taken back the land. And now it's time for our troops to come back home.”

nh/mud