Additional Coverage:
- Mast blasts Blinken over ‘tens of billions’ of US taxpayer dollars sent to Taliban post-Afghanistan withdrawal (foxnews.com)
Congressman Grills Secretary of State Over Taliban Funding
A newly appointed House Foreign Relations Committee chair has criticized Secretary of State Antony Blinken for sending billions of dollars to the Taliban since the US withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Tens of Billions to the Taliban
Rep. Brian Mast alleges that billions of taxpayer dollars have been directed to the Taliban, despite the US having no embassy or diplomats in Afghanistan. He argues that this funding is being misused, with money going towards teaching carpet weaving instead of humanitarian aid.
Accountability Concerns
Mast expressed concern that the money is not being properly monitored. He cited reports that $75 million was allocated to teaching women to farm, but questioned whether that money is being used as intended.
Request for Explanation
Mast demanded an explanation from Blinken regarding the purpose of a $3.5 billion fund for “macro financial stability” in Afghanistan. He criticized the vague language and questioned the effectiveness of the funding.
Blinken’s Response
Blinken defended the funding, stating that it is implemented through partner organizations such as UN agencies and NGOs. However, Mast countered that these partners have a history of lying to the US about the use of funds.
Conclusion
Mast concluded by emphasizing that the US has no embassy or diplomats in Afghanistan and should not be providing any funding to the Taliban. He argued that the funds are being misused and there is a lack of accountability.