Esper Says He Was Briefed On Alleged Russian Payments In February

The transcript discusses allegations of Russia offering payments to the Taliban to target US and coalition forces in Afghanistan. During a House Armed Services Committee hearing, Esper initially denied receiving a briefing with the term 'bounty' but later clarified his statement. The intelligence reports, which surfaced in January, were deemed not credible by US commanders. Esper and General Mark Millie stated that the intelligence remains uncorroborated, but efforts to verify it continue. Additionally, Esper has ordered an investigation into leaks of sensitive information from the Pentagon, including the alleged Russian payments.

What was the initial response of US officials to the reports of Russian payments to the Taliban?

• They immediately confirmed the reports.

• They denied receiving any briefings on the matter.

• They launched a military operation in response.

• They ignored the reports completely.

What was the stance of US commanders in Afghanistan regarding the credibility of the reports?

• They found the reports highly credible.

• They were skeptical and did not find them credible initially.

• They had no opinion on the matter.

• They confirmed the reports immediately.

What action did Esper take in response to the alleged Russian payments?

• He dismissed the reports as false.

• He ordered an immediate military strike.

• He ordered an investigation into the leaks.

• He resigned from his position.

What was the nature of the leaks that Esper ordered an investigation into?

• They were related to military strategies.

• They involved sensitive information about Russian payments.

• They concerned environmental issues.

• They were about economic policies.

When did the leaks of sensitive information reportedly begin?

• In 2018

• In 2020

• In 2021

• In 2019