US President Donald Trump has stated that the United States is seeking to retake control of Bagram airbase in Afghanistan from the Taliban, describing it as a key strategic asset that was surrendered during the chaotic withdrawal from the country in 2021. Speaking at a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers, Trump said he was negotiating with the Taliban for American forces to once again occupy the base, which was formerly the largest US military site in Afghanistan.
Trump highlighted the base's proximity to China, claiming it is located just one hour away from where China manufactures its nuclear weapons. He criticised his predecessor, Joe Biden, over the withdrawal, asserting that it left American weapons and military assets in Taliban hands. Trump previously stated in February that his original withdrawal plan would have retained Bagram, not for Afghanistan's sake but due to its strategic location relative to China.
The Taliban have denied Trump's claims that China is occupying the airfield. Spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid stated that the base is under Afghan control. Reports suggest the Taliban are interested in normalising ties with the US after facing geopolitical isolation over human rights abuses and terror threats.
During the same press conference, Trump expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, saying Putin had 'really let me down' by continuing attacks. Trump had expected the war to be resolved within days of his re-entry into the White House, citing his relationship with Putin.
