According to the reports, After the American and NATO forces withdraw from Afghanistan, which is likely to be substantially completed in the next two weeks, some 650 US troops are anticipated to stay in Afghanistan to provide protection for diplomatic missions in Afghanistan.
Additional hundreds of American troops would also remain at the Kabul airport, perhaps until September, to help Turkish troops in providing security as an interim measure until a more formal Turkey-led security operation is in force, officials said on Thursday.
Overall, sources said the US intends to have American and coalition military command, leadership, and the majority of soldiers out by July 4th, or shortly thereafter, achieving an aspirational target set months ago by commanders.
The majority of more than 4,000 troops who have been in the country in recent months are leaving far before President Joe Biden’s September 11 deadline. It also comes as the Taliban’s battle advancements escalate, heightening concerns that the Afghan government and military may fall apart in a matter of months.
Officials have frequently stated that security at the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul is a must if any US diplomatic personnel are to remain in the country.
Meanwhile, at the White House, President Joe Biden meets with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and the HNCR chairman, Dr. Abdullah Abdullah on Friday to discuss the U.S support to Afghanistan and the Afghanistan peace process.
There was speculation last week about the possible extension of the US soldier presence at Bagram Airfield, north of Kabul, but authorities stated the base’s presence is anticipated to terminate in the coming days. Officials said that NATO allies, such as Germany, are also very close to being completely out of the country.
