The NPR Politics Podcast After Almost Two Decades Of War, Biden To Withdraw Troops From Afghanistan
Apr 14, 2021
President Biden's landmark decision to withdraw U.S. troops from Afghanistan by September 11, 2021, signifies a major military policy shift after 20 years. The discussion delves into the historical context and implications of this move. Attention is also given to national security strategies required post-withdrawal, particularly regarding emerging global threats. The political ramifications of this decision provoke tension across party lines, while a look at domestic terrorism exposes the evolving landscape of threats within the U.S.
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Biden's Troop Withdrawal
- President Biden announced troop withdrawal from Afghanistan by September 11, 2021.
- This marks the end of a 20-year war, with Biden being the fourth president to oversee it.
Shifting Perspectives on the War
- Osama bin Laden's death a decade ago lessened the emotional drive for the war.
- Biden, initially supportive of the war, later advocated for drawdown as vice president.
Shared Goal Across Administrations
- Both Biden and Trump administrations aimed to end the "forever war" in Afghanistan.
- They both cited the high cost and extended duration as reasons for withdrawal.