were then at about 4,500 in afghanistan until conditions were met for further reductions. two days later, on 11 november, i received an unclassified signed order, directing the united states military to withdraw all forces from afghanistan, by 15 january 2021. after further discussion regarding the risks associated with such a withdrawal, the order was rescinded. on 17 november, we received a new order, to reduce troop levels to 2,500, plus enabling forces, no later than 15 january. when president biden was inaugurated, there were approximately 3,500 u.s. troops, 5,400 nato, and 6,300 contractors in afghanistan, tasked to train, advise, and assist a small contingent of counterterrorism forces. and the strategic situation was stalemate. the biden administration took the national security council process conducted a rigorous interagency review of the situation. in afghanistan in february,