The New York Times : Obama plans to extend his combat role in Afghanistan . Previously , the President had said combat operations would end in 2014 . The Times said that half the 9,800 troops would leave by the end of next year . Official told CNN that U.S. troops will ` ` continue to engage in operations in self - defense '' Operation Enduring Freedom website : 2,351 U.S. soldiers have died in Afghanistan .
The New York Times : Obama plans to extend his combat role in Afghanistan . Previously , the President had said combat operations would end in 2014 . Official told CNN that U.S. troops will ` ` continue to engage in operations in self - defense '' Operation Enduring Freedom website : 2,351 U.S. soldiers have died in Afghanistan .