Video emerges of captured US soldier in Afghanistan
US officials have received a new video of captured Army Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl they believe was taken within the last month, showing that the soldier is alive.
The video came to light several days ago, said one senior defence official. Another said that Bergdahl appeared in poorer health than previous videos, showing the signs of his nearly five years in captivity.
Bergdahl was taken prisoner in Afghanistan on June 30, 2009. It is believed he is being held somewhere in Pakistan.
The Taliban have said they would free him in exchange for several of their most senior operatives who are being detained at the US detention facility in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
In a statement, Bergdahl’s family said: “Naturally, this is very important to us and our resolve to continue our efforts to bring Bowe home as soon as possible.
“As we have done so many times over the past four and a half years, we request his captors to release him safely so that our only son can be reunited with his mother and father.
“Bowe – If (you) see this, continue to remain strong through patience. Your endurance will carry you to the finish line. Breathe!”
