Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has ignited a major controversy with her claim that the Biden administration funneled $239 million to the Taliban. During a recent press conference, Greene presented what she asserts is evidence supporting this explosive allegation.
Greene alleges that this substantial sum, intended as humanitarian aid for Afghanistan following the U.S. troop withdrawal, was misappropriated. According to her, the funds were diverted by corrupt Afghan officials and eventually ended up with the Taliban. This accusation is based on a report from the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), which has yet to be made public.
“The Biden administration’s incompetence and negligence have allowed for hundreds of millions of dollars to be handed over to our enemies,” Greene stated. “This is not only a betrayal of the American people, but a direct threat to our national security.”
In support of her claims, Greene referenced a recent Taliban statement indicating they received significant financial support from unspecified foreign donors. Although the Taliban did not directly link the funds to the U.S., Greene suggested these funds were part of the same controversial aid package.
The Biden administration has strongly rebutted Greene’s accusations, labeling them as “baseless and absurd.” White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki defended the administration’s actions, asserting that all aid distribution was in full compliance with legal and regulatory standards. Psaki emphasized that strict measures were in place to prevent funds from reaching terrorist organizations.
“We take any allegations of misuse of taxpayer funds very seriously,” Psaki remarked. “Congresswoman Greene’s claims are simply not credible.”
Despite these denials, Greene remains resolute in her demands for a thorough congressional inquiry. She has called for a full-scale investigation to uncover the truth behind the alleged funding scandal and to ensure accountability.
“This is a matter of utmost urgency and importance,” Greene said. “We cannot allow taxpayer dollars to be funneled to terrorist organizations under any circumstances. The American people deserve answers, and they deserve justice.”
The controversy surrounding these claims underscores the ongoing challenges of providing aid in conflict zones like Afghanistan. As the situation develops, the potential implications for U.S. foreign policy and national security are significant and warrant close attention.