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George Bush criticizes Western withdrawal from Afghanistan

By Vandana Nampoothiri

In an interview with a German broadcaster on Wednesday, former U.S president George W. Bush criticized the Western withdrawal from Afghanistan. 

When asked whether the withdrawal was a mistake, he told German international broadcaster, Deutsche Welle, “You know, I think it is, yeah, because I think the consequences are going to be unbelievably bad.” He also said that he fears Afghan women and girls will have to “suffer unspeakable harm.”

The withdrawal of USA and NATO troops set in motion by president Joe Biden is now nearing completion. 

“Laura (Bush) and I spent a lot of time with Afghan women, and they’re scared. And I think about all the interpreters and people that helped not only U.S. troops but NATO troops, and it seems like they’re just going to be left behind to be slaughtered by these very brutal people. And it breaks my heart.” Bush further added. 

The US-Afghanistan war started in 2001 under Bush’s presidency after the September 11 attacks on the US. After the Taliban leader, Mullah Omar refused the ultimatum to hand over al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, the U.S.-led coalition launched an invasion in October.

 

Tags: Afghanistan George Bush us troops

Vandana Nampoothiri

Vandana Nampoothiri is currently pursuing masters in Mass Communication and Journalism from St. Joseph's College (Autonomous), Bengaluru. Vandana is currently working as an intern at USAnewshour.com and can be reached at vandananamphu@gmail.com.