Washington (Web Desk): US President Donald Trump has criticized the way the American military withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021, calling for the return of billions of dollars worth of military equipment that was left behind.
During a Cabinet meeting, Trump highlighted the extensive gear abandoned by U.S. forces, including brand-new trucks and advanced military vehicles.
He remarked on the display of this equipment by the Taliban, noting that Afghanistan has become a significant source for selling military assets, including rifles and armored vehicles.
Trump expressed frustration with the Biden administration's handling of the withdrawal, referring to it as a disaster.
He particularly pointed out the loss of control over Bagram Air Base, once the largest U.S. military base in Afghanistan, which was quickly seized by the Taliban after the U.S. left.
The former president went as far as saying that U.S. generals who oversaw the operation should be fired, although he did not direct Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to take any immediate action.
The Department of Defense's 2022 report indicated that more than $7 billion in military equipment, ranging from aircraft to ground vehicles and firearms, was left behind when US forces withdrew. Much of this equipment was seized by the Taliban and has been used in displays of military might.
In addition, some of this gear has reportedly made its way into the hands of terrorist groups like the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), who have used it in attacks against Pakistan.
While a substantial portion of the equipment was removed or destroyed by U.S. forces before leaving, the remaining military gear is now believed to be largely inoperable without the necessary support and maintenance from U.S. contractors. Despite this, Trump continues to press the issue, calling for the return of the equipment.
The situation has stirred further debate over the strategic decisions made during the final stages of the U.S. involvement in Afghanistan.
As for the military leaders involved, some have already retired, including Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, who commanded US Central Command at the time of the withdrawal, and Gen. Mark Milley, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Both men had recommended maintaining a small US presence in Afghanistan after the main withdrawal but saw their advice unheeded by the Biden administration.
