US to maintain two large bases in Afghanistan despite drawdown

The US has confirmed that it will continue to maintain two large bases in Afghanistan despite the drawdown of its forces in the war-torn country.

According to a Reuters report, the US Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley told in an event that the US will keep two large bases and several satellite bases in Afghanistan.

This comes after the US administration announced that it will reduce its troops in Afghanistan to 2,500 by the middle of January.

At the event, Milley also confirmed that the US military will continue to support Afghan security forces, as well as counter-terrorism operations against militant groups.

However, he did not confirm which bases will be closed as a result of the drawdown.

Currently, the US has around 4,500 troops stationed in the country.

Last month, the US Department of Defense Acting Defense Secretary Christopher C Miller announced that it will reduce its troops in Afghanistan in accordance with US President Donald Trump’s plans to bring US forces back home from the ‘forever wars’.

The plan also included reducing military personnel in Iraq.

Separately, the US-backed Afghan Government and the Taliban have agreed on framework rules for peace talks following two months of discussions.

The US has been gradually reducing its presence in Afghanistan since early this year under a separate agreement with the Taliban. It is expected to completely withdraw from the country by May.