Former CIA Director David H. Petraeus described the Taliban’s takeover of power in Afghanistan as “shocking” and “disastrous” for the world.
The former commander of the military forces in Afghanistan warned of negative consequences after the armed movement took control of the country, in statements
“This is a massive setback for national security, and it’s about to get worse unless we take really important action, ” Petraeus said in comments reported by the New York Post .
The 68-year-old retired general stressed the need to communicate effectively with the Taliban to stop what they are doing.
Petraeus considered that whether things lead to a civil war in Afghanistan, as happened after the end of the Russian occupation, or the Taliban took control of the reins of government, the fruits will not be good in all cases, he said, adding: “The consequences will be dire if we do not recognize that things will not take place according to Our most optimistic estimates.”
Petraeus, who headed the CIA in 2011 and 2012, said the situation had not yet reached a point of no return, but said it would take a “tremendous effort ” to combat the renewed Taliban threat after the armed group regained control of the country.
The United States had agreed to end the presence of its forces after the administration of former President Trump negotiated with Taliban leaders , but the group reneged on several promises it had made to reach a negotiated settlement with Afghan officials.
