The military progress has enabled some political progress , with Afghan security forces preparing this year to take over seven areas in Afghanistan that are home to some 20 % of the population . Obama : Senior administration officials say planning for the drawdown began in January . Romney , Huntsman question Obama 's decision . President Obama announces all 33,000 ` ` ' '' troops to leave by September 2013 . The withdrawal will begin next year , with 10,000 troops leaving Afghanistan this year .
Obama : Senior administration officials say planning for the drawdown began in January . Romney , Huntsman question Obama 's decision . President Obama announces all 33,000 ` ` ' '' troops to leave by September 2013 . The withdrawal will begin next year , with 10,000 troops leaving Afghanistan this year .