US to cut troop levels to 2,500 each in Iraq and Afghanistan

Tue, 17 Nov, 2020 - 19:56

Robert Burns and Lolita C Baldor, Associated Press

Acting defence secretary Christopher Miller has announced plans to reduce US troop levels in Iraq and Afghanistan, saying the decision fulfils Donald Trump’s pledge to bring forces home even as Republicans and US allies warn against a rash withdrawal.

The new plan will accelerate troop withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan in Mr Trump’s final days in office, despite arguments from senior military officials in favour of a slower, more methodical pullout.