[ Reuters ] Before Afghan collapse, Biden pressed Ghani to ‘change perception’

In the last call between U.S. President Joe Biden and his Afghanistan counterpart before the Taliban seized control of the country, the leaders discussed military aid, political strategy and messaging tactics, but neither Biden nor Ashraf Ghani appeared aware of or prepared for the immediate danger of the entire country falling to insurgents, a transcript reviewed by…

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[ Business Insider ] The UK is considering incorporating Afghan special forces evacuated from Kabul into the British army

Afghan special forces could join the British Army as part of a new regiment being considered by UK MPs, according to the Telegraph. Hundreds of the Afghan commandos who’ve arrived in the UK over the past few weeks have been trained by UK troops in Afghanistan. Ministers are currently considering the proposal to employ the soldiers.…

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[ Newlines Mag ] The Taliban’s Struggle to Control Kabul

Before formally entering Kabul, the Taliban had already secreted men into the city, where they were biding their time, ready to take over the capital. But the quick collapse of the capital caught even them unprepared. The units assigned to secure the city were still busy clearing the outskirts of the capital and neighboring provinces…

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[ Politico ] U.S. officials provided Taliban with names of Americans, Afghan allies to evacuate

U.S. officials in Kabul gave the Taliban a list of names of American citizens, green card holders and Afghan allies to grant entry into the militant-controlled outer perimeter of the city’s airport, a choice that’s prompted outrage behind the scenes from lawmakers and military officials. The move, detailed to POLITICO by three U.S. and congressional…

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[ Gateway Pundit ] US State Department Goes Into Hiding, Cancels Press Briefing After 4 US Marines Killed, 3 Injured in Kabul Blasts

The State Department on Thursday canceled its press briefing after 4 US Marines were killed and at least 3 others were injured in the Kabul blasts. There were two explosions reported outside the Kabul Airport on Thursday. The Biden White House has canceled all meetings and press briefings so far. DPA Notes: The lack of…

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