The military spent more than a decade urging three different American presidents to stay in Afghanistan. With President Joe Biden’s decision this week to withdraw all U.S. forces by Sept. 11, they finally lost the battle.
But in the end, Biden and his top national security deputies did what no previous president has done successfully — they overrode the brass. But behind the scenes, it is Secretary of State Antony Blinken and national security adviser Jake Sullivan who are truly “running the Pentagon,” according to two former officials familiar with the discussions.Lawmakers and congressional aides who have been briefed on the rationale for Biden’s decision also said military officials were pushing for a residual force rather than a complete withdrawal.
Austin “took every opportunity afforded him to offer his perspectives and advice in what was a deliberate and inclusive process,” Kirby said. “He is more than comfortable that his advice was respected and that his leadership is valued.” But rather than a repudiation of the generals, experts and former officials said the debate and ultimate decision is a reflection of the civil-military process working as it was designed.
David Petraeus, the former CIA chief and commander of U.S. troops in Afghanistan said the Taliban have shown no desire to participate in intra-Afghan peace talks, and after the U.S. withdrawal will likely overrun the country and allow terrorist groups such as al Qaeda and the Islamic State to reconstitute.
Reed’s GOP counterpart atop the Armed Services panel, Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma, called Biden’s decision “political” in nature and suggested that the president undercut his military advisers. But those who cheered Biden’s decision noted that the president’s view shouldn’t have been a surprise.
“The military” doesn’t outrank the President, idiots. No rank was pulled. 🙄
Remember when 45 allowed bounties on troops, tried to rope them into a coup, disrespected our military at EVERY possible juncture? Politico can go suck a fuck
after following the US into Afghanistan Australia now follows them out....like a good dog
As if...
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