Watchdog reports U.S. mission in Afghanistan involved significant waste

Congress allocated approximately $144.7 billion for Afghanistan reconstruction from 2002 to 2021, but the U.S. struggled to establish a democracy due to corruption and lack of a clear strategy, as detailed in the SIGAR’s final report. Acting inspector general Gene Aloise highlighted systemic waste and corruption within the Afghan government, describing it as a “white-collar criminal enterprise.” The U.S. left behind $38.6 billion in military assets after its withdrawal, and SIGAR played a crucial role in identifying $26 billion in waste, fraud, and abuse. As SIGAR is set to close on January 31, Aloise emphasized the importance of oversight for future U.S. engagements in similar contexts.

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