US President Donald Trump has reiterated his commitment to recovering US military equipment left behind at Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan after the withdrawal of US troops four years ago.
In a recent cabinet meeting, President Trump highlighted the abandonment of billions of dollars in military hardware, including 777,000 rifles and 70,000 armored vehicles. He criticized previous US leadership for leaving these assets behind and emphasized that Afghanistan has become a major seller of military gear globally.
While addressing the issue, President Trump emphasized that his primary concern is not Afghanistan but rather China. He expressed regret over relinquishing control of Bagram as it is strategically located near where China produces its nuclear missiles. He revealed plans to maintain a small force at Bagram to counter China’s regional influence.
Contrary to Trump’s claims, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid refuted the assertion that China controls Bagram Air Base, labeling it as misinformation. He insisted that the base remains under the control of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, denying any Chinese presence on the premises.
Despite the Taliban’s denial of Chinese involvement, reports suggest that China has been strengthening economic and security ties with Afghanistan post-US withdrawal. This growing relationship has raised concerns about China’s potential strategic influence in the region, including at Bagram Air Base.
The abandoned US military equipment in Afghanistan is not only a concern within the country but also poses a threat across the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Recent seizures of US-made weapons in Pakistan indicate the proliferation of such arms and ammunition, leading to a surge in terrorist activities in the region.
President Trump’s remarks regarding Bagram Air Base reflect the escalating geopolitical rivalry between the US and China in Afghanistan. China’s expanding engagement in Afghanistan through various initiatives has sparked apprehension in Washington, particularly considering the base’s historical significance as a US military asset.
Overall, President Trump’s statements regarding Bagram Air Base illustrate broader strategic objectives beyond mere logistics. They underscore the shifting dynamics in the region and highlight the complex challenges and opportunities facing the US and its allies in navigating the Afghanistan-China-US geopolitical landscape.