WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement regarding reports that the Trump Administration will withdraw all American troops from Syria:

“This precipitous withdrawal leaves scores of unanswered questions, most pressingly about how the Administration plans to ensure the defeat of ISIS. This move also totally cedes influence to America’s adversaries. Russia and Iran are seeking greater influence in Syria, as the House of Representatives underscored in a recent resolution. Yet we have no diplomatic presence in Syria and the President cut off our $200-million effort to help restore stability and security in war-ravaged parts of the country. What is the Administration’s strategy for countering our adversaries?

“Additionally, it’s essential that the president consult with Congress to ensure that the United States only uses military force in a way consistent with the War Powers Resolution.

“This is a deeply complex situation and the United States has real security concerns when it comes to Syria. The White House hasn’t come close to presenting a comprehensive strategy for grappling with this problem. Instead, where American leadership is desperately needed, the Trump Administration is again taking us off the field.”

# # #