Trump planning to withdraw more US troops from Iraq
Team Udayavani, Sep 9, 2020, 8:38 AM IST
Washington: The Trump administration will announce Wednesday that it is withdrawing additional troops from Iraq, as President Donald Trump tries to make good on his campaign promise to disentangle the country from “endless wars.”
A senior administration official discussed the draw-down with reporters aboard Air Force One on Tuesday night, on condition of anonymity. The official said the administration is also looking to announce the withdrawal of additional troops from Afghanistan in the coming days.
The planned announcements come as the president has been trying to make the case that he has fulfilled the promises he made four years ago as he tries to secure a second term.
There are more than 5,000 American troops in Iraq now. In July, the top US general for the Middle East said he believed the US will keep a smaller but enduring presence in the country. Marine Gen Frank McKenzie, the commander of US Central Command, said he believes the Iraqis welcome the US and coalition troops, especially in the ongoing fight to keep IS fighters from taking hold of the country again.
Trump told reporters two weeks ago that “we look forward to the day when we don”t have to be there.”
The comments came during an Oval Office meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi. However, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo emphasized at that same meeting that a full withdrawal of US troops would only occur once “we can complete the mission.”
Udayavani is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel and stay updated with the latest news.
Top News
Related Articles More
Apparent Israeli attack on Iran’s territory intercepted, no damage to any installation: Envoy
Biden administration official backs reform of UN in response to Musk’s comments on permanent UNSC seat for India
Russia initiates withdrawal of peacekeeping forces from Karabakh as Azerbaijan takes full control of the region
Unprecedented rainfall in Dubai: Social media flooded with visuals of submerged airport & streets
Israel’s Defense Innovations: From Iron Dome to Arrow 3
MUST WATCH
Latest Additions
Youth Congress leader trying to protest near PM’s convoy route detained
Vinesh, Reetika, Anshu secure Paris Olympics quotas for India
Kejriwal stopped taking insulin months before his arrest: Tihar officials claim in report to L-G
Loan recovery: Kerala Woman dies after suicide bid
FIR registered against D K Shivakumar for poll violation, says Election Commission