Trump Slams Afghan Withdrawal, Highlights Strategic Bagram Air Base Value

US President Donald Trump has described the withdrawal from Afghanistan as catastrophic and the most disgraceful day in US history.

In his latest remarks to Congress, he stated that if he had been president at the time of the withdrawal, he would never have abandoned Bagram Air Base.

Trump said: “Afghanistan disaster would have never happened—the most embarrassing moment in the history of our country—not leaving, I was going to leave. I’m the one that got him to a point where they could leave.”

According to Trump, Bagram Air Base, one of the world’s largest military bases, is significant to the US because of its proximity to China’s nuclear weapons manufacturing facilities.

He added: “I was going to keep it. Not for Afghanistan, because it’s one hour away from where China makes its nuclear weapons. Wouldn’t it be nice to have it? You know who occupies it now? China occupies it now.”

Although the interim government has not responded to this issue, previously the Islamic Emirate’s spokesperson denied reports that China was managing the Bagram base and called Trump’s remarks imaginary.

“Trump’s comments and actions suggest he seeks to reclaim Bagram; however, this should not be done by force or coercion, as it is unlikely and could create problems for him,” said Aziz Maarej, former diplomat.

With the potential return of Donald Trump to power, Kabul-Washington relations are expected to change.
The suspension and cutting of US aid to Afghanistan, the visit of the US delegation to Kabul, and the release of three American citizens by the Islamic Emirate are among the most significant developments in the two countries’ relations over the past three months.