Antony Blinken: "We got many out, but many are still there"

With the withdrawal of troops from Kabul, the US ended its diplomatic presence in Afghanistan.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday evening that diplomatic activities were relocated to the Qatari capital, Doha.

"In view of the uncertain security situation and the political situation in Afghanistan, this was a prudent step."

A new diplomatic mission has now started.

From Doha one wants to regulate consular affairs, but also manage humanitarian aid and organize cooperation with the allies.

"We want to continue our relentless efforts to help Americans, foreigners and Afghans, if they choose to leave Afghanistan," said Blinken.

More than 100 Americans remain in Afghanistan

According to the US Secretary of State, there are still more than 100 Americans in Afghanistan who want to leave the country. It is assumed that their number is "under 200, probably closer to 100," said Blinken. The US government also wants to help US citizens who have family roots in Afghanistan and may not decide to leave the country until later. "We will help them leave."

With the withdrawal of the last US soldiers from Kabul Airport, the United States had ended its military operation in Afghanistan after almost 20 years. All US troops have left the country, General Kenneth McKenzie, who heads US Centcom Central Command, announced on Monday at the Pentagon, Washington time. This also ended the military mission to evacuate US citizens, allies and vulnerable Afghans.

Blinken said there had been intensive efforts to evacuate Afghans who had worked with the US.

"We got a lot out, but many are still there." They will continue to work to help them.

"Our obligation to them has no deadline." Blinken emphasized that the Taliban had promised to allow Afghans to leave the country, "including those who worked for the Americans".

According to Blinken, a Taliban-led government in Afghanistan must earn international legitimacy and support.

"The Taliban can do that," said Blinken.

To do this, they would have to keep their promises of freedom of travel, respect fundamental rights and form an inclusive government.

They are also not allowed to give refuge to terrorists or take revenge against their opponents.

Blinken announced that the US would continue to provide humanitarian aid to the Afghans. This aid will not come through the Taliban government, but through independent organizations such as the United Nations or aid organizations. "We expect that these efforts will not be hindered by the Taliban."