Veterans call on Trump administration to save Afghan ally support program
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A leaked budget proposal from the White House Office of Management and Budget to the U.S. State Department has shed light on the Trump administration’s approach towards Afghan allies awaiting transportation to the U.S. through the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts (CARE) under Enduring Welcome. The proposal suggests ceasing additional funds to CARE and utilizing the program’s existing $600 million balance for its orderly shutdown by the end of fiscal year 2025.
While the National Security Council and State Department have not provided specific details about the allocation of these funds, a State Department spokesperson mentioned that the future of the Afghan relocation program and CARE is under active consideration. At present, CARE continues to offer support to Afghan allies who have been relocated to overseas processing platforms.
Veteran experts have expressed concerns about the potential shutdown of CARE, highlighting the impact it could have on America’s reputation and the safety of allies who relied on U.S. promises. Shawn VanDiver, a U.S. Navy veteran, emphasized the importance of Operation Enduring Welcome in providing a secure pathway for well-vetted Afghans to start new lives in the U.S. He also suggested areas for improvement in the Biden administration’s handling of the program.
No One Left Behind, a nonprofit organization, has called for congressional support to maintain the CARE program and uphold the U.S.’s moral obligation to protect wartime allies. Andrew Sullivan, the executive director of the organization, stressed the significance of continuing efforts to facilitate the safe relocation of Afghan allies who still remain in the pipeline.
The potential consequences of ending Operation Enduring Welcome and CARE are dire, according to experts. Bill Roggio, an editor at the Long War Journal, warned that sending allies back to Afghanistan would expose them to grave dangers, as the Taliban has a history of targeting individuals who collaborated with the U.S. government.
In conclusion, the fate of Afghan allies and the future of the CARE program remain uncertain. As discussions continue within the government, organizations like No One Left Behind are advocating for the protection of allies who risked their lives to support U.S. efforts in Afghanistan. The decision to uphold America’s promise to these individuals will be a testament to the nation’s values and commitment to supporting those who stood by its side in times of need.
