There are reports that Russian bonuses have been offered to Afghan terrorists for killing US troops. (Representative)
London:
British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace confirmed on Tuesday that he had seen US reports of alleged Russian bonuses being offered to Afghan terrorists for killing American troops.
“I am aware of the information,” said Wallace during a hearing before the Parliament’s defense subcommittee, asked specifically about the alleged Russian bonuses.
“I can only comment on intelligence matters by saying that we are taking many steps to defend and ensure that our soldiers, men and women in our armed forces, when deployed, are safe.”
The New York Times and other American media have said that Washington began sharing information with London last week.
US President Donald Trump initially denied being informed of the findings and the White House said on Monday that there was “no consensus” among intelligence agencies on their veracity.
Russia has categorically rejected proposals to pay Taliban soldiers to kill American troops.
But Wallace’s comments suggest that the results have been conclusive enough for the United States to alert its close ally to the potential dangers posed to its own forces in Afghanistan.
“I don’t think I would say there is a greater danger (to the British forces) than the danger they face every day from Al Qaeda or even other forces in Afghanistan,” said Wallace .
(With the exception of the title, this story was not edited by GalacticGaming staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
