Zelensky, YES Mr. Trump. Russia avoids meeting trap. EU sabotage fails. Security guarantee confusion
Topic 1789

Trump Humiliates Zelensky EU/UK Leaders, Calls Putin, NO US Guarantees; Putin Cool On Zelensky Talks
Topic 1644

Zelensky UK/EU Face Off With Trump; Graham Wants Russia Declared Terror State; Syrsky Admits Crisis
Topic 1643

The Duran: Episode 961
France's Marine Le Pen Acquitted in Case Over Violating Hate Speech Laws
https://sputniknews.com/europe/202105041082797685-frances-marine-le-pen-acquitted-in-case-over-violating-hate-speech-laws/

U.S. to Begin Withdrawal of Forces From Iraq

Tuesday, 19 August 2025 08:38 [ Last Update: Tuesday, 19 August 2025 09:41 ]

The United States is to initiate the withdrawal of its military forces from the Ain al-Asad Airbase in Iraq’s Anbar Province as of September, marking a significant step in ending its longstanding military presence in the country.

Why it matters:

The move signals the beginning of a broader U.S. troop drawdown in Iraq, fulfilling Iraq’s push for sovereignty. It could reshape security dynamics in the Middle East, potentially reducing tensions in the region.

The big picture:

The withdrawal aligns with a July 2024 accord between Washington and Baghdad, which stipulates the phased exit of U.S.-led coalition forces from most Iraqi bases by September 2025, with a full departure from Iraqi Kurdistan by September 2026.

As of mid-2025, approximately 2,500 U.S. troops remain in Iraq, down from peaks of over 5,000 during the Daesh (ISIS) takeover of some parts of...