Defense Secretary Defends Execution Of Final Airlift From Kabul

Top U.S. defense officials acknowledged the challenges faced during the rapid evacuation from Kabul, citing capacity and screening issues. They admitted to misjudging the stability of Afghanistan's army and suggested that maintaining a troop presence could have prevented the Taliban takeover. These insights were shared with the Senate Armed Services Committee.

What were some of the issues faced by the U.S. during the evacuation from Kabul?

• Lack of transportation

• Capacity and screening problems

• Weather conditions

• Communication breakdown

What is the U.S. still working on regarding Americans in Afghanistan?

• Providing financial aid

• Rebuilding infrastructure

• Evacuating those who wish to leave

• Establishing new military bases

Who were the top U.S. defense officials that testified about the situation in Afghanistan?

• Secretary of State Antony Blinken and General David Petraeus

• Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and General Mark Millie

• Vice President Kamala Harris and General James Mattis

• President Joe Biden and General Colin Powell

What did the U.S. defense officials agree on regarding the Afghan army?

• It was well-prepared for the Taliban

• It was not a concern for the U.S.

• It was stronger than expected

• It was misjudged in terms of stability

What did the defense officials suggest the Biden administration should have done to prevent a Taliban takeover?

• Increased diplomatic efforts

• Kept thousands of troops in Afghanistan

• Provided more financial aid

• Established a new government