President Donald Trump on Thursday once again signaled US interest in Bagram airbase, saying talks “with Afghanistan” are ongoing.
He downplayed what was left behind, calling it minor compared to the military rebuilt during his first term.
Trump has publicly mentioned Bagram at least 20 times since returning to the White House. In recent weeks, he has escalated demands for its “immediate” return, warning the Taliban of “bad consequences” if they refuse.
The base, once the hub of US military operations in Afghanistan, was vacated in July 2021 under the Biden administration’s withdrawal.
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid denied Trump’s remarks that negotiations are underway for the handover of Bagram. In an interview with Al Arabiya, he said recent talks with US officials have focused on prisoner exchanges and economic issues, not military bases.
