Reflections on the U.S. Withdrawal from Afghanistan and its Aftermath

Kabul — As Americans mark the 25 years since the September 11 attacks, CBS News revisits Afghanistan. The war sparked by those attacks ended five years ago with the Taliban’s dramatic return to power. This came after U.S. and allied troops departed, wrapping up two decades of conflict.

When departing, the Taliban took control of billions in U.S.-purchased military equipment. President Trump, whose administration forged the agreement to end the conflict, has criticized the Biden administration for mishandling the withdrawal.

The Current Scene in Kabul

Today, American military hardware is a common sight in Kabul. Taliban fighters navigate the streets in armored vehicles and using American tactical gear. On the fifth anniversary of their return to power, a parade involving Taliban personnel took place in front of the former U.S. Embassy.

An American Humvee, still displaying a faded Green Bay Packers decal, highlights the former presence of U.S. forces. Trump has repeatedly criticized the Biden administration for leaving behind substantial military assets. He insists that the Taliban should return this equipment.

The Taliban’s Display and Ownership of Armaments

Taliban forces have showcased the U.S.-funded arsenal through military parades. According to Pentagon data, approximately $7 billion in equipment ended up with the Taliban as the Afghan National Army collapsed. CBS News documented “Badri 313,” an elite Taliban unit, using these American resources shortly after the 2021 withdrawal.

The Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, Abdul Qahar Balkhi, indicated that the equipment is now considered part of the Afghan state’s assets. He rejected any notion of returning these items, pointing instead to the broader history of American actions in Afghanistan.

Critiques and Repercussions of the Withdrawal

Critics say the withdrawal allowed the Taliban to become a state military force armed with American weaponry. They argue the group uses these weapons to enforce an extreme version of Islamic law, severely limiting rights for women and restricting freedoms across Afghanistan.

Former President Biden offered scant public remarks on the withdrawal. In September 2021, he stated that he would not continue the “forever war.” He emphasized the need to end U.S. military involvement if Afghan forces would not battle for their own country.

In 2023, the Biden administration released a summary of a classified review on the withdrawal, mainly pointing at the Trump administration’s agreement with the Taliban for U.S. troop withdrawal by May 2021. A separate report from the State Department criticized both administrations for inadequate withdrawal planning.