The local commander of US soldiers in the northern Afghan city of Mazar-e-Sharif says the role of his forces has evolved from combat to a more humanitarian mission.
"The security situation has improved. Clearly, it was incumbent upon all of us to prepare to assist these people locally," said the commander.
US troops are helping repair the airport runway so humanitarian flights can continue, he said. They are also evaluating the needs of schools, refugees and hospitals for humanitarian organizations stretched thin by the tasks of feeding and housing Afghans during the cold winter months.
He refused to say how many U.S. soldiers are based in the city or when they arrived, claiming some were here before the Taliban were driven out on November 9.
He confirmed that small numbers of French and British troops were staying with US forces at their base in an abandoned school. He expressed optimism that three Afghan factions, with significant forces in the north of the country, would work together to ensure peace in the region.
Reports state security had improved dramatically in recent weeks in Mazar-e-Sharif. Though many people walk through town armed with assault rifles, and soldiers are often seen riding in the backs of trucks with rocket-propelled grenade launchers, these sights are decreasing.
PA