New Defense Secretary Tours Afghanistan Amid Military Exit Pressures

The transcript discusses the Pentagon chief's visit to Afghanistan amid questions about the duration of US troop presence after 18 years. The US is reviewing a deal with the Taliban to withdraw troops by May 1st. The Taliban warned of consequences if the deadline is missed. The US aims for a responsible exit and a negotiated settlement, with the exit date to be announced by President Biden.

What has been the duration of U.S. troops' presence in Afghanistan as mentioned in the text?

What is the nature of the settlement that Austin refers to in the context of the war?