Dominic Raab last night ordered the dramatic rescue of the British ambassador in Kabul as Taliban forces closed in on the Afghan capital. But by early yesterday, after a lightning offensive, the Taliban captured the city of Pul-e-Alam, capital of Logar province and just 43 miles from Kabul. It means Kabul is well within range of the artillery guns seized by Taliban units after they were abandoned by the routed Afghan forces. ‘It’s a privilege to be here at such a pivotal time.’But as he flees Kabul, the message appears to jar with reality. Before Kabul, Sir Laurie had a brief stint as the British ambassador to the COP26 conference.

Source: The Nation August 14, 2021 21:56 UTC