Biden, Johnson to Hold G7 Meeting on Afghanistan Crisis

U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Tuesday, on the situation in Afghanistan and agreed to hold a virtual G7 leaders’ meeting next week to discuss the matter.

"Biden had a phone call with Johnson and both agreed to hold a summit and discuss a common strategy and approach," the White House said in a statement.

The two leaders "discussed the need for continued close coordination among allies and democratic partners on Afghanistan policy going forward, including ways the global community can provide further humanitarian assistance and support for refugees and other vulnerable Afghans," the statement read.

"Johnson stressed the importance of not losing the gains made in Afghanistan over the last 20 years, of protecting ourselves against any emerging threat from terrorism and of continuing to support the people of Afghanistan," a Downing Street spokesperson said.

Biden's decision to stick to the troop withdrawal deal struck by his Republican predecessor Donald Trump has stirred widespread criticism at home and among U.S. allies.

On Tuesday, the United States and Western allies resumed evacuating diplomats and civilians.