Obama: 34,000 US troops to leave Afghanistan

Tonight, we stand united in saluting the troops and civilians who sacrifice every day to protect us.

Because of them, we can say with confidence that America will complete its mission in Afghanistan, and achieve our objective of defeating the core of al Qaeda.

Already, we have brought home 33,000 of our brave servicemen and women.

This spring, our forces will move into a support role, while Afghan security forces take the lead.

Tonight, I can announce that over the next year, another 34,000 American troops will come home from Afghanistan.

This draw down will continue. And by the end of next year, our war in Afghanistan will be over.