Taliban Seeks Improved Relations with US Following Trump’s Victory
In a significant diplomatic overture, the Taliban’s political office chief in Qatar has expressed optimism about potentially improved relations with the United States following Donald Trump’s presidential election victory. Suhail Shaheen, speaking to Russia’s RIA Novosti news agency on Thursday, Aqrab 17, emphasized their desire for normal relations with America and international recognition.
The Taliban’s Foreign Ministry welcomed Trump’s victory on Wednesday, Aqrab 16, urging him to reconsider US policy toward their government. This diplomatic push comes despite J.D. Vance, Trump’s running mate, previously criticizing US financial aid to the Taliban as “complete madness,” citing their historical connection to Al-Qaeda and the 9/11 attacks.
However, Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center, suggested that Trump’s administration might be more inclined to engage with the Taliban, particularly appreciating their efforts against ISIS-K. This perspective recalls Trump’s previous engagement with the Taliban, including the Doha Agreement during his first presidency.
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