Citing corruption, US slashes Afghan aid days before election

The United States on Thursday accused Afghanistan's government of failing to fight corruption and cut more than USD 160 million in direct funding, little over a week before the country's elections.

While Washington has long complained of graft by its ally, the harsh measure comes after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani clashed with President Donald Trump over the US leader's deal with the Taliban.

"We stand against those who exploit their positions of power and influence to deprive the Afghan people of the benefits of foreign assistance and a more prosperous future," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement.

Pompeo said that the United States was suspending work with the Afghan body in charge of monitoring corruption as it is "incapable of being a partner".

"We expect the Afghan government to demonstrate a clear commitment to fight corruption, to serve the Afghan people and to maintain their trust," he said.

"Afghan leaders who fail to meet this standard should be held accountable."
Pompeo, speaking to reporters in Abu Dhabi, said that the United States wanted "free and fair elections," adding: "We're going to do everything we can to support them."