The Taliban fighters who have recently captured power in Afghanistan after fighting US forces for nearly 20 years are still "ruthless," said Mark Alexander Mille, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff.
"The Taliban have been a ruthless force since the beginning of their establishment and influence," he said. It remains to be seen whether they have changed at all. No matter what they say, their character will become clearer as time goes on. '
He made the remarks at a briefing at the Pentagon around 11:30 a.m. local time on Wednesday (September 1). He was accompanied by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin.
US military officials have formally briefed the Pentagon on ending the 20-year war in Afghanistan, withdrawing troops and repatriating US troops.
The United States must respond to human rights abuses in Afghanistan:
Asked whether he was "hurt and angry" at the 20-year war, the US Joint Chiefs of Staff said: "War is always difficult. It is cruel and unforgivable. We all have that pain and anger. '
"But I'm a professional soldier," said Mark Millie, who said 242 troops had been killed in Afghanistan under his direct command. I have to move forward by controlling anger and pain. It is the job of a soldier to always work with a cold head in carrying out the mission. I am also stepping on that path. '