KABUL, Afghanistan — Following Donald J. Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election, Taliban expressed hopes that his administration would adopt “realistic” policies toward Afghanistan.
In a statement from the Taliban-run Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spokesperson Abdul Qahar Balkhi voiced optimism about improving relations, calling for a new chapter of “mutual engagement” between the two countries.
The statement, released on social media hours after Trump’s win over Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, reflects the Taliban’s cautious hopes for diplomatic progress with Washington.
Trump has been critical of the Biden administration’s withdrawal from Afghanistan, particularly the loss of Bagram Air Base, which he called vital for U.S. interests, and the billions of dollars’ worth of military equipment left behind.
Balkhi specifically referenced the 2020 Doha Agreement signed under Trump’s previous administration as a foundation for future cooperation, reiterating the Taliban’s interest in constructive dialogue.
Trump’s election win, with 277 electoral college votes, marks his return to the White House, where the future of U.S.-Taliban relations remains uncertain yet pivotal amid regional and global security concerns.
