Afghan political leaders have failed to negotiate for the future of their country following the Taliban solidifying its power in the country, US President Joe Biden said on Monday. “The political leaders of Afghanistan were unable to come together for the good of their people, unable to negotiate for the future of their country,” Biden said in remarks on the situation in Afghanistan.

The US troops are working to secure the Kabul airfield, Biden added, noting that US troops “are working to secure the airfield.” The United States made clear to the Taliban that it if they attack US personnel or disrupt evacuation efforts, the US administration will respond with devastating force, Biden pointed out.

“As we carry out this departure we have made it clear to the Taliban if they attack our personnel or disrupt our operation, the US presence will be swift and the response will be swift and forceful,” Biden said. “We will defend our people with devastating force if necessary.”

The United States has shut down its embassy and the staff is gathered at the airport, the US President added. “We have safely shut down our embassy and transferred our diplomats. Our diplomatic presence is now consolidated at the airport as well,” he said.