The Daily America’s Final Hours in Afghanistan
Aug 31, 2021
Eric Schmitt, a senior writer for The New York Times focused on terrorism and national security, discusses the bittersweet conclusion of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. He delves into the emotional atmosphere as the last troops left, juxtaposed with the Taliban's celebratory gunfire. The conversation highlights the urgent evacuation efforts, the challenges in ensuring safety, and the uncertain future for those left behind. Schmitt sheds light on ongoing security threats and the implications for U.S. foreign policy in this evolving landscape.
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Final Hours in Kabul
- The last five American military planes left Afghanistan shortly before midnight.
- Celebratory gunfire from Taliban fighters marked the departure.
Historic Yet Anticlimactic
- The U.S. withdrawal, while historic, felt anticlimactic due to its quiet execution.
- It occurred under darkness, a day earlier than the August 31st deadline.
Balancing Security and Evacuation
- The U.S. prioritized security by leaving early, sacrificing valuable evacuation time.
- Every hour saved reduced risks for civilians and soldiers at the airport.