Trump attacks Harris and Biden over the withdrawal from Afghanistan in electoral speech.

Trump attacks Harris and Biden over the withdrawal from Afghanistan in electoral speech.

Trump attacked Harris and Biden for the withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, promising actions if he returns to the presidency in 2024.

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros

Juan Brignardello Vela

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, y Vargas Llosa, premio Nobel Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, en celebración de Alianza Lima Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, Central Hidro Eléctrica Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, Central Hidro
Politics 27.08.2024

In a recent speech in Detroit, former President Donald Trump lashed out at Vice President Kamala Harris, blaming her and President Joe Biden for the problems and "humiliation" that he claims characterized the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan in 2021. Trump, who was the architect of the agreement with the Taliban in 2020, adopted a combative tone as he prepared for the 2024 presidential elections, where he hopes to face Biden again. Trump emphasized that the withdrawal, which culminated in the Taliban's takeover of Kabul on August 15, has seriously damaged the credibility of the United States on the global stage. He asserted that the final decision to carry out the withdrawal was a direct reflection of the choices made by Harris and Biden. "Voters are going to fire Kamala and Joe on November 5, that we hope," Trump said, referring to the elections that will take place in 2024. The disastrous evacuation that followed the takeover of Kabul left indelible images in the collective memory. The fall of the U.S.-backed Afghan government and scenes of panicked Afghan civilians trying to escape the country became a symbol of the failure of U.S. strategy in the region. Trump promised that if elected again, he would take concrete actions against those he considers responsible for this calamity. "When I take office, I will have the resignations of every senior official who had anything to do with the calamity in Afghanistan on my desk by noon on inauguration day," the former president assured. Such comments resonate with his supporters, who value his straightforward approach and apparent willingness to act quickly. In response to Trump's accusations, the vice president's campaign team reminded that Harris had declared herself "the last person in the room" when Biden made the decision to withdraw troops. This was presented as an attempt by the current administration to defend its position and minimize the former president's responsibility for the withdrawal fiasco. It is noteworthy that while the White House has acknowledged failures in intelligence and planning surrounding the withdrawal, it has also shifted blame to Trump for creating an environment that ultimately led to defeat in Afghanistan. This blame-shifting dynamic between the administrations reflects the political polarization that characterizes the debate over U.S. foreign policy. Trump's speech comes at a time when his figure remains central in Republican politics, despite the criticism he has faced, even from some veterans who believe his comments about the military have been inappropriate. However, his visit to Arlington National Cemetery, where he honored fallen soldiers, seems to be an attempt to reconnect with the more conservative and patriotic electorate. Harris, for her part, has expressed her respect for the "13 devoted patriots" who lost their lives in the suicide bombing at Kabul airport and has emphasized the importance of remembering those who were left behind amid the chaotic evacuation. This response, while laden with empathy, suggests that the Biden administration is willing to fight its own narrative battle over the withdrawal. As the 2024 elections approach, it is likely that the withdrawal from Afghanistan will remain a hot topic in the political arena. Trump appears determined to capitalize on this issue, using his rhetoric to galvanize his supporters and attract voters seeking change. The narrative of the withdrawal could become a crucial point in his campaign, while Harris and Biden prepare to defend their legacy and decisions during a period of high political tension. The polarization and confrontation between the two parties show no signs of abating, and the future of U.S. politics may be defined by how these issues are handled and perceived in the upcoming electoral cycle. The story of Afghanistan, with its complexity and human implications, will continue to be a central pillar in the discussion about the country's future and its leadership.

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