UK Considers Doubling Number Of Troops In Afghanistan

The UK Government is considering nearly doubling the number of British troops in Afghanistan, according to reports.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson is said to have written to the Prime Minister recommending the increase - but a decision is yet to be made.

According to reports, up to 400 military personnel could be sent to the country to join those already deployed – around 600 - in non-combat roles.

Nato has also reportedly asked Britain to send more troops to the country.

The US has increased its presence in Afghanistan since President Donald Trump unveiled his South Asia strategy in August last year. Around 4,000 troops are thought to have been added to the 8,400-strong US deployment in the country, to bolster the Kabul government, train Afghan forces and fight the Taliban and other militant groups.

The military uplift is intended to prevent a Taliban takeover of the country, target Islamic State and al Qaida.

The UK's combat operations ended in 2014 and the remaining personnel are limited to training Afghan forces.

The reported change in approach is said to come amid concerns over how Mr Trump will approach a coming meeting of Nato leaders at a summit in Brussels in July.

Mr Trump has repeatedly called for Nato members to meet their defence spending commitment of 2 per cent of GDP and has threatened to walk away from the organisation if his demands are not met.