11 Things to Know: Afghanistan on the Eve of Withdrawal

Ready to take off and leave Afghanistan.... © DesClark desclark.photos

U.S. and NATO troops are rapidly executing President Biden’s policy of a complete withdrawal of American troops and contractors supporting the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) by a deadline of September 11. Based on the rate of progress, the last American soldier could depart before the end of July. The decision to withdraw without a cease-fire or a framework for a political agreement between the Taliban and the government caught Afghans and regional countries by surprise. The Taliban have capitalized on the moment to seize dozens of districts and project an air of confidence and victory.