Leaving Afghanistan

President Obama campaigned on a promise to bring American troops back home from Afghanistan. But he soon found himself embroiled in battles with military chiefs convinced that more troops were needed to end the war. Those at the heart of the campaign reveal how the president desperately tried to find a solution. But by the time Obama left office, the troops were no closer to returning.

President Trump came to power promising to bring all American troops back home. Ignoring advice, he negotiated with the Taliban and agreed to unilateral withdrawal from Afghanistan. Surprising many, newly elected President Biden then stuck to Trump's plan. The result was the sudden removal of troops that resulted in the collapse of a nation and terrifying scenes that shocked the world.