United States: Recent allegations that the US State Department-funded the Afghan Taliban have been refuted by the US State Department defending itself as “absolutely false”. In a briefing on 10 July, Matt Miller covered the issue stating that the US does not support or fund the Taliban.
Miller cited a UN report detailing the Taliban’s rights violations in Afghanistan, particularly affecting women and girls. With US aid contribution standing at $1. 1 billion through USAID and the State Department, there are apprehensions regarding the continuation of education for Afghan girls.
Besides Afghanistan, Miller offered his condolences for the recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan and reassured Pakistan that the US continues to work with Pakistani institutions to improve security in the region. He also stressed the commitment of the United States to press freedom around the world, specifically to the issue of the protection of journalists.
On diplomatic relations, Miller attested to negotiations with Turkey on the Gaza ceasefire and reconstruction in the wake of Secretary Blinken’s talks with Turkish officials.
In intragovernmental memorandums, Miller highlighted shifts in the State Department team managing North Korea, such as Dr. Jung Pak’s resignation and Assistant Secretary Dan Kritenbrink’s taking over of DPRK coverage.
Please stay tuned for further reports on American foreign policy and world affairs.
