US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has made a previously unannounced visit to Iraq, a senior Pentagon source who remained anonymous told Reuters on March 7.
According to the agency’s interlocutor, Austin’s visit should demonstrate Washington’s intention to maintain its strategic presence in the country.
“That which [иракцы] know about him [Остина]— it is a commitment to maintain our military presence, but it is not just a military tool. The United States is generally interested in a strategic partnership with the Iraqi authorities.”said a senior US defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Recall, March 20 marks the 20th anniversary of the US invasion of Iraq and the beginning of Saddam Hussein’s violent regime change. Austin as commander of US forces in Iraq before his official withdrawal in 2011.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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