Russia welcomes U.S. troop withdrawal from Iraq

Russia has expressed support for the withdrawal of United States and allied troops from Iraq. Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Moscow welcomes the move, suggesting it demonstrates the ability of Iraqi security forces to independently manage national defense and security.

This follows an announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump and the Pentagon regarding the end of the international operation ‘Inherent Resolve’. Trump characterized the 12-year military campaign as an ‘expensive trip to hell.’ The coalition, which was formed in 2014 to combat the Islamic State, included over 60 countries and operated without direct United Nations Security Council approval.