Jackson Purchase News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) addressed the Senate floor today, expressing concerns about an American citizen, Ryan Corbett, who is currently detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan. McConnell highlighted the impact of America's withdrawal from Afghanistan and the consequences it has brought upon American families. He shared the story of Ryan Corbett, an individual detained by the Taliban, emphasizing the hardships faced by Ryan and his family.

McConnell stated, "For over a decade prior to the fall of Kabul, Ryan and his family lived amongst the Afghan people... As the Taliban returned to power, the Corbett family was forced to flee." He further added, "But Ryan made the difficult decision to return, hoping to pay his staff and keep his business afloat. And on August 10, 2022, the Taliban detained him without charge."

Expressing the dire situation faced by Ryan, McConnell mentioned, "For 607 days, Ryan has been confined to a nine-by-nine basement cell, with scraps for food, little to no sunlight, and intermittent contact with his family." McConnell urged for immediate action to secure Ryan's release, stating, "It’s time to put the Taliban’s violent rule on notice... It’s time to bring Ryan Corbett home."

McConnell also highlighted the resolution introduced by himself and the U.S. Senate Democratic Leader, emphasizing America's commitment to freeing Ryan and condemning the Taliban's wrongful detention of American citizens. He criticized the Biden Administration for sending aid to Afghanistan despite Ryan's continued captivity, stressing the need to demonstrate that the United States will not allow its citizens to be used as bargaining chips.

In conclusion, McConnell's impassioned plea for Ryan's release and his call to hold the Taliban accountable resonated with the urgency to address the plight of American citizens detained unjustly. The resolution introduced serves as a beacon of hope for Ryan Corbett and his family, as efforts continue to bring him back home.