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Former ambassador to Afghanistan worries about Biden’s ability to lead

Aug 19, 2021, 3:59 PM | Updated: 4:31 pm

The United States is scrambling to run American and Afghan evacuations out of the airport in Kabul. With an Aug. 31 deadline looming, thousands of people are at the airport while Taliban fighters circle the grounds.

The latest from Afghanistan

Former ambassador to Afghanistan Ryan Crocker joined KIRO Radio’s Dori Monson Show on Thursday to explain where the United States goes from here.

“We have not seen the worst of this by any means,” Crocker said. “The images of a Taliban victory of the U.S. that they are putting forth is going to threaten our security, our interests, and security around the world for a long time to come.”

Crocker said he’s not entirely sure if the United States is at particular risk on the upcoming 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, but he says the band is back together and he’s certain they’re bringing al-Qaeda with them.

As for Biden’s ability to lead the country through this as Commander in Chief, Crocker said he has questions.

“This was his first major issue that he has had to deal with as commander in chief and the results make me very worried for the future,” he said.

Listen to the Dori Monson Show weekday afternoons from noon – 3 p.m. on KIRO Radio, 97.3 FM. Subscribe to the podcast here.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Former ambassador to Afghanistan worries about Biden’s ability to lead