The United States (US) State Department announced that it is cutting $1 billion in economic assistance to Afghanistan in reaction to ongoing political impasse, reports Khaama News Agency on March 24. According to a statement released by State Department, “The United States deeply regrets that Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and former Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah have informed Secretary Pompeo that they have been unable to agree on an inclusive government that can meet the challenges of governance, peace, and security, and provide for the health and welfare of Afghan citizens”. The statement further mentioned, “The United States is disappointed in them and what their conduct means for Afghanistan and our shared interests,” the statement said, adding that “Their failure has harmed U.S.-Afghan relations and, sadly, dishonours those Afghan, Americans, and Coalition partners who have sacrificed their lives and treasure in the struggle to build a new future for this country.”