Defense Secretary Robert Gates on Wednesday expressed "personal regret" for recent U.S. airstrikes that killed Afghan civilians, and pledged more accurate targeting in future.
After meeting with Afghan President Hamid Karzai and other senior government officials, Gates said at a news conference, "As I told them, I offer all Afghans my sincere condolences and personal regret for the recent loss of innocent life as a result of coalition airstrikes."
Gates said the U.S. military takes extraordinary precautions to avoid civilian casualties, but added, "It is clear that we have to work even harder." He told Afghan officials that he would be discussing the issue with American commanders and pilots on Wednesday.
Gen. David McKiernan, the commander of international forces in Afghanistan, said earlier that a shortage of U.S. troops in Afghanistan is forcing commanders to rely more on air combat, which can cause more civilian deaths. The attacks that have angered and embarrassed the U.S.-backed Afghan government.
Kyrgyzstan air carrier operates first flight on Bishkek – Khujand – Bishkek air route
Dushanbe and Bishkek chose to resolve the issue without third-party mediation and succeeded
A number of bilateral cooperation documents to be signed following Rahmon’s official visit to Moscow
Trump orders staff cuts at USAGM, overseeing RFE/RL and VOA. What will happen to media corporations?
EU helps Tajikistan reduce electricity grid losses and provide ‘green transition’ through cotton
Rahmon receives EU Commissioner for International Partnerships to discuss cooperation
IOM develops free financial literacy course for labor migrants
Tajikistan’s ministry of labor proposes new sectors for employment in Qatar
Emomali Rahmon to pay an official visit to Russia
Butcher's shops in Dushanbe: how sellers set prices and what buyers are displeased about
All news
Авторизуйтесь, пожалуйста