Pakistan could pull troops from its border with Afghanistan and deal a setback to America’s war against the Taliban if the United States slashes aid to the country, the Pakistani defense minister threatened Tuesday.
“If Americans refuse to give us money, then OK,” Defense Minister Ahmed Mukh tar said in an interview airing in Pakistan, Reuters reported. “I think the next step is that the government or the armed forces will be moving from the border areas. We cannot afford to keep military out in the mountains for such a long period.”
Mukhtar’s comments came in response to the Obama administration’s saying it will suspend $800 million in aid as the U.S. and Pakistan “work over time” to improve their strained relationship.
Denver Post wire services
