In a swift move during his early days in office, President Donald Trump has signaled a tougher approach towards Afghanistan and the Taliban government, suggesting that the nation will remain under scrutiny despite shifting US priorities. Two key decisions by the Trump Administration have already directly impacted the war-torn country, creating uncertainty about future relations.
Immediately after being sworn in as the 47th president, Trump signed a series of executive orders, one of which halted US foreign aid, including a crucial Afghanistan refugee program. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio informed US missions worldwide to suspend foreign assistance until a review determined whether these funds aligned with Trump’s “America First” policy. Afghanistan, which had received at least $3 billion in humanitarian aid since August 2021, has already felt the effects, with its currency, the Afghani, losing value and inflation surging.
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In a further blow, Trump has demanded the return of US military equipment left behind after the withdrawal, conditioning any future aid on the Taliban’s compliance. The equipment, valued at $7 billion, was seized by the Taliban following the US pullout, and Trump has emphasized its return in exchange for any continued financial support.
In addition to these financial and military concerns, the Trump Administration has also put a halt on the resettlement program for Afghans who had worked with US forces. Around 40,000 Afghans are affected, including 25,000 stranded in Pakistan for over three years. This move has left thousands of families in limbo, further complicating the humanitarian situation in the region.
Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested a potential escalation in US actions against the Taliban, hinting at placing a “very big bounty” on the group’s leaders. His comments, which were posted on the social media platform X, also raised concerns about the number of Americans allegedly held hostage by the Taliban, suggesting that the situation might be worse than previously reported.
As these developments unfold, the relationship between the US and the Taliban appears to be entering a new and uncertain phase, with Trump’s hardline policies already reshaping the dynamics.
