US President Joe Biden stood firmly behind his decision to withdraw troops from Afghanistan despite the rapid fall of Kabul to Taliban forces. Biden said he no longer wants to sacrifice American lives for a country that is unwilling to fight for itself.

During a televised address, Biden blamed Afghanistan political leaders for abandoning their people and the unwillingness of U.S.-trained Afghan security forces to defend their country. In just a matter of days, the Taliban’s blitzkrieg resulted in the fall of the entire country, oftentimes in some cities without any resistance.

Biden said they are now actively evacuating all U.S. troops and personnel from the country. The president warned that the Taliban would face “devastating force” if they interfere with the U.S. withdrawal.

Biden said during his speech that there was never a right time to pull out but after 20 years of fighting a lost cause, it was bound to happen. He acknowledged that the fall of Afghanistan happened quicker than anticipated.

Biden then proceeded to ask difficult questions to his audience – including questions about how many more American lives should be spent to fight Afghanistan’s civil war.

“How many more generations of America’s daughters and sons would you have me send to fight Afghans – Afghanistan’s civil war when Afghan troops will not? How many more lives – American lives – is it worth?” Biden asked.

Biden vowed that the country will continue to provide aid to Afghan refugees and to seek diplomacy. Biden said he already authorized the release of a $500 million emergency budget to help Afghan refugees. This includes the provision of special immigration visas for locals who are at risk of retaliation for working with the U.S. government.

Watch Biden’s Full Speech Below: