Afghanistan: Final US planes leave Kabul after two decades of war

The final United States evacuation planes left Afghanistan on Monday, US officials confirmed.

It marks the final departure of its troops from the country after almost 20 years of war. The final planes took off one minute before midnight in Kabul, carrying the last US troops to leave the country.

"I'm here to announce the completion of our withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the end of the military mission to evacuate American citizens," Central Command Commander General Frank McKenzie said.

McKenzie said US and coalition military aircraft had evacuated over 120,000 civilians during a two-week airlift that was brought about by the Taliban's seizure of power. But he did add: "We did not get everybody out that we wanted to get out."

And US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said later that "under 200, likely closer to 100 Americans wishing to leave remain in Afghanistan after US withdrawal."

In awe of our Sky Dragon Soldiers.

This was an incredibly tough, pressurized mission filled with multiple complexities, with active threats the entire time. Our troops displayed grit, discipline and empathy.

Below is a picture of the last Soldier to leave Afghanistan. pic.twitter.com/LnhBGHUf0M

— XVIII Airborne Corps (@18airbornecorps) August 30, 2021

Earlier this year, US President Joe Biden set a deadline of August 31 for the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan.

In the wake of the final plane leaving, Biden issued a statement saying he would explain his decision not to prolong the process.

"Tomorrow afternoon, I will address the American people on my decision not to extend our presence in Afghanistan beyond August 31," he said.