British troops could return to Afghanistan to help stamp out Taleban
Retired general warns soldiers could accompany local forces on operations
The number of British troops in Afghanistan could substantially increase under plans to bolster efforts to counter the Taleban.
Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson is understood to have written to the Prime Minister recommending the uplift, although a decision is yet to be made.
The Ministry of Defence said the UK’S contribution to the mission was kept “under constant review”.
Between 400 to 450 soldiers could be sent to the country to join the roughly 600 already deployed in non-combat roles following pressure from US president Donald Trump for international allies to do more.
But former general Sir Richard Barrons warned that even more troops could be required – and they should be prepared to accompany Afghan forces on operations.
The retired officer said the decision to end combat operations in Afghanistan at the end of 2014 “hasn’t worked”.
He told BBC Radio 4’s Today that 400 extra troops would “send an important message to our allies” that they should do more and would also signal to the Taleban “they will never bring this fight in Afghanistan to an end by fighting, they have to resort to dialogue”.
But he suggested a greater military presence and an enhanced – and more dangerous – role should be considered, with troops leaving the relative safety of their bases to accompany Afghan forces on operations.
“I absolutely think, if we are going to make a meaningful contribution, we will have to find the courage to train, advise, assist and accompany them into action,” Gen Barrons said.
“With that comes some risks and consequences, but that’s how you make a difference.”
The US has increased its presence in Afghanistan since Mr Trump unveiled his South Asia strategy in August last year. Around 4,000 troops are thought to have been added to the 8,400-strong US deployment in the country.
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