Trump stated that the U.S. sends over $2.5 billion annually to Afghanistan, but in return, it expects the military equipment left behind to be returned.
“I want the equipment back. If we’re sending that much money to them, they should return the military equipment they have,” Trump stressed.
The Islamic Emirate’s de-facto government in Afghanistan has not responded to Trump’s remarks yet. However, it has previously stated that the equipment left behind by the U.S. is considered “war spoils” and that returning it is not possible.
On the other hand, some political and military experts believe that President Trump’s comments are aimed at putting pressure on the Islamic Emirate and pushing them to the negotiating table.
Samiullah Ahmadzai, a political analyst, noted, “Trump is trying to initiate talks with Afghanistan. Both sides have repeatedly accused each other of violating the Doha Agreement. Trump’s goal is to re-enter negotiations and address the issue of U.S. military equipment.”
Mohammad Sadeq Shinwari, a military expert, argued that Trump’s statements regarding the return of the military equipment are unjustifiable. He added, “These remarks have no military, political, or legal justification. This is an attempt at pressure and threats. The U.S. needs to reconsider its policy towards Afghanistan and engage with the Afghan people through dialogue, rather than confrontation.”
Previously, the U.S. Department of Defense had stated that the value of the military equipment left behind by U.S. forces in Afghanistan amounts to $7 billion.
