Interview with former US Ambassador John Bolton on Afghanistan

The transcript discusses the historical context of foreign interventions in Afghanistan, focusing on the Soviet withdrawal in 1989 and the subsequent American involvement. The US aimed to dismantle the Taliban and Al Qaeda, achieving partial success. The discussion highlights the challenges of nation-building and the primary goal of protecting America from terrorism, emphasizing the complexity of the mission and its ongoing repercussions.

What year did the Russians withdraw from Afghanistan, marking the end of their 10-year war?

• 1999

• 1989

• 2009

• 1979

What was the primary objective of the American intervention in Afghanistan?

• To overthrow the Taliban and combat al Qaeda

• To promote economic development

• To support the Russian government

• To establish a strong central government

Which group did the Taliban provide support to, prompting American intervention?

• The Northern Alliance

• Al Qaeda

• ISIS

• The Soviet Union

What was considered unnecessary in the process of nation-building in Afghanistan?

• Combating terrorism

• Protecting America and its allies

• Building a strong central government

• Providing humanitarian aid

What was the key point of the mission in Afghanistan according to the speaker?

• To promote cultural exchange

• To establish a democratic government

• To protect America and its allies from terrorist attacks

• To help the Afghans build a new society