The Trump transition team is compiling a list of senior current and former U.S. military officers involved in the Afghanistan withdrawal to explore possible court-martial charges, including treason, due to the perceived chaotic nature of the withdrawal. The team, led by Matt Flynn, is framing the effort as a review of how the U.S. got involved in Afghanistan and ultimately withdrew, criticizing both the Trump and Biden administrations for the handling of the situation. Former secretary of defense candidate, Pete Hegseth, has condemned the withdrawal, calling it a humiliating retreat and criticizing Pentagon leaders for failing to be held accountable for the deadly attack at Abbey Gate.
Trump’s transition team may consider recalling commanders to active duty for possible charges, although the possibility of treason charges is unclear. The team wants to set an example and focus on highlighting the officers’ involvement in the withdrawal. Trump, learning from his first administration, is said to be avoiding hiring Democratic generals in his second term. Former officials from Trump’s first administration warned against policies that could weaken national security or inflame tensions, such as withdrawing troops from Syria or deploying troops to quell protests.
The efforts to investigate and possibly charge military officers involved in the Afghanistan withdrawal are seen as a way to address perceived failures and set a precedent for accountability within the military leadership. The focus on potential treason charges and the targeting of specific individuals involved in the withdrawal demonstrate a desire to hold individuals accountable for decisions made during the withdrawal process.
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