Hoyer Statement on the President's Announcement on Troop Levels in Afghanistan

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on President Obama's announcement regarding troop levels in Afghanistan:

“The continued deployment of U.S. troops in Afghanistan is an issue that hits home for millions of Americans, including those who lost loved-ones since combat operations there began fourteen years ago after the September 11 attacks.  The President believes it is in our nation's critical security interest for a limited number of U.S. troops to remain in that country for the time being.  This decision was based on a determination that current conditions do not justify a complete drawdown, and I welcome further details on how the Administration reached that conclusion.  At a minimum, I believe preserving a U.S. military presence at bases in Kandahar and Jalalabad is critical for advise-and-assist efforts, along with sustained counterterrorism activities.  I look forward to further consultations from the White House and the Pentagon.”