Chief Deputy Spokesperson for the US State Department, Vedant Patel, has categorically denied any involvement by the United States in the removal of Sheikh Hasina's government following the anti-discrimination student protests on August 5. Patel made it clear during a press briefing on Monday, September 9, that the US played no part in the protests or in the subsequent fall of Hasina’s administration. However, he affirmed the US's readiness to work with the interim government now led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus.
At the briefing, a journalist raised concerns about reports suggesting both Chinese influence and potential US involvement in the political upheaval in Bangladesh. Patel responded by saying, "We are closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh and are prepared to work with the Yunus-led interim government. This government will shape the democratic future of the people of Bangladesh, and we stand ready to support those efforts."
When asked about Indian media claims accusing the US of supporting the protests that led to Sheikh Hasina's downfall, Patel dismissed the reports as untrue. He emphasized that these allegations, which some fear could strain US-India relations, have no factual basis.
Patel concluded by reaffirming the US's commitment to engaging with the current government in Bangladesh, particularly in the context of promoting democratic elections.
