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Former President George W Bush speaks out on the collapse of the government in Afghanistan, expressing his sadness at the rapid takeover of the country by the Taliban.
Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush said in a joint statement released Monday evening that their hearts are heavy for Afghan civilians, Americans and NATO allies.
“Laura and I have watched the tragic events unfolding in Afghanistan with deep sadness,” said the former president. “Our hearts are heavy both for the Afghan people who have suffered so much and for the Americans and NATO allies who have sacrificed so much.”
He said that the Afghans “today most at risk are the same who have been at the forefront of progress within their nation,” noting that President Biden
Joe BidenBiden administration to announce booster shots for most fully vaccinated Americans: reports Afghanistan falling into chaos: five takeaways, Trump ally Adam Laxalt to challenge Cortez Masto in Nevada MORE pledged to evacuate Afghan civilians, US citizens and their allies.
“The United States government has the legal authority to cut red tape for refugees during urgent humanitarian crises. And we have the responsibility and the resources to ensure a safe passage for them now, without bureaucratic delay. Our most loyal allies, as well as private NGOs, are ready to help, ”added the former president.
Biden, also late Monday, allocated $ 500 million in additional funds for the relocation of Afghan refugees, including applicants for special immigrant visas (SIV).
The war in Afghanistan began under the administration of George W. Bush following the attacks of September 11, 2001. The Taliban quickly took control of Kabul on Sunday, leaving Americans and Afghan civilians desperate to flee the country.
In the new statement, the former president expressed confidence in the US military to lead assessment efforts and said he would like to speak directly with them and with veterans who served in Afghanistan.
“Many of you are suffering from war wounds, both visible and invisible. And some of your brothers and sisters in arms have made the ultimate sacrifice in the war on terror. Every day, we have been touched by your commitment and your courage, ”he said.
Bush also praised the work of the US military over the past two decades to deny al Qaeda a safe haven, build schools, and provide supplies and medical care in Afghanistan.
“At times like these, it can be difficult to stay optimistic. Laura and I will definitely stay that way. Like our country, Afghanistan is also made up of resilient and dynamic people, ”he said, noting that nearly 65% of the Afghan population is under the age of 25.
The former president stressed that he and the former first lady are ready to support and help in the situation.
In July, Bush warned of the consequences of the US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, saying he had seen the progress made by Afghan women and girls.
“Laura and I spend a lot of time with the Afghan women and they are scared and I think of all the performers and all the people who have helped not only the American troops but also the NATO troops and it seems they are just going to be left behind and slaughtered by these very brutal people. It breaks my heart, “Bush said in an interview with DW, a German news network.
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