The United States will continue to conduct airstrikes to assist Afghan forces facing attack from the Taliban insurgents, a regional US commander said on Sunday as the US and other international forces have drawn down troops in Afghanistan.
“The United States has increased airstrikes in support of Afghan forces over the last several days and we’re prepared to continue this heightened level of support in the coming weeks if the Taliban continue their attacks,” US Marine General Kenneth “Frank” McKenzie told a news conference in Kabul.
He further said, “The government of Afghanistan faces a stern test in days ahead. The Taliban are attempting to create a sense of inevitability about their campaign.”
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Saturday that the Afghan security forces’ first job was to make sure they could slow the Taliban’s momentum before attempting to recapture territory.
McKenzie also said that there would likely be a rise in violence after a lull over a Muslim holiday this week and said the Taliban could focus on populated urban centers.
