President Obama thanked the military in a statement marking the end of the United States’ combat mission in Afghanistan as a ceremony took place in Kabul to commemorate the departure of most U.S. troops.
After more than 13 years of fighting, a majority of U.S. forces will leave Afghanistan on Dec. 31. Under an agreement with Afghanistan, the U.S. will maintain nearly 10,000 troops and NATO allies will contribute another 2,000, with that number drawing down significantly by 2018.
“We honor the profound sacrifices that have made this progress possible. We salute every American — military and civilian, including our dedicated diplomats and development workers — who have served in Afghanistan, many on multiple tours, just as their families have sacrificed at home,” Obama said in a statement.
As a candidate for president, Obama pledged to end the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. U.S. troops left Iraq in December 2011, but were pulled back into the country this year as fighting led by militant group the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria escalated.
As for Afghanistan, where the U.S. has been involved since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the U.S. still will maintain a limited military presence at the request of Kabul.
“Afghanistan remains a dangerous place,” Obama said, adding, “Our personnel will continue to face risks, but this reflects the enduring commitment of the United States to the Afghan people and to a united, secure and sovereign Afghanistan that is never again used as a source of attacks against our nation.”
