WASHINGTON, D.C. – Kamala Harris and Joe Biden were nowhere to be found today as President Trump joined Gold Star families and soldiers maimed during the Abbey Gate explosion three years ago. During that chaotic and hectic retreat from Afghanistan, 13 American services members were killed and scores were maimed and injured during an attack.
The ceremony took place at Arlington National Cemetery.
Notably absent from the ceremony were President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Their absence did not go unnoticed, particularly given the context of the event. Trump has been an outspoken critic of the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal.
Trump has repeatedly condemned both Biden and Harris for what he describes as a disastrous exit, which not only led to the loss of American lives but also marked a deeply embarrassing moment on the world stage for the United States.
The families of the fallen servicemembers have also voiced their frustration and grief, with many holding the administration accountable for the deaths of their loved ones.
Trump’s presence at the ceremony, along with the absence of the current president and vice president, underscored the ongoing political and emotional weight surrounding the Afghanistan withdrawal. It also highlighted the continuing debate over how the situation was handled and its long-lasting impact on the nation and the military community.
