China, Taliban Reject Trump’s Bold Push to Reclaim Bagram
Beijing and Kabul unite against US reclaiming Afghan air base.
In a sharp rebuff to US President Donald Trump’s bold proposal to reclaim the strategic Bagram air base in Afghanistan, both China and the Taliban swiftly rejected the idea on Friday, warning that any move to reinsert American military presence could ignite regional tensions. The base, abandoned by US forces in the chaotic 2021 withdrawal under then-President Joe Biden, lies just an hour’s flight from China’s nuclear facilities, a proximity Trump cited as a key reason for its recapture.
Trump floated the plan during a joint press conference in the UK with Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, amid his state visit. “We’re trying to get Bagram back because they need things from us,” Trump stated, alluding to ongoing US-Taliban talks on re-establishing relations. He emphasized the base’s geopolitical value, noting its closeness to “where China makes its nuclear weapons,” according to BBC reports. The sprawling facility, once a hub for US operations in Afghanistan, was seized by Taliban militants as they swept into Kabul four years ago.
Taliban spokesperson Zakir Jalal fired back on X, declaring the interim Afghan government “completely rejects” any notion of a US military return. “Afghanistan and America can engage economically and politically on mutual respect and benefits, but without military presence anywhere in our country,” Jalal asserted. He recalled the Doha agreement, which explicitly barred foreign troops, underscoring that Afghans have historically resisted external occupations. “Doors to other engagements remain open, but military presence is off the table,” he added.
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From Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian echoed the sentiment, stressing China’s commitment to Afghanistan’s sovereignty. “China respects Afghanistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity—its future lies in the hands of its people,” Lin said during a media briefing. He cautioned against “stirring up tension and confrontation in the region,” which “will not be supported.” Lin urged all parties to contribute constructively to peace and stability, amid China’s growing stakes in the war-torn nation. Since recognizing the Taliban government shortly after its 2021 takeover, Beijing has poured investments into a major copper mine revival and oil extraction initiatives, viewing Afghanistan as a gateway for its Belt and Road ambitions.
The dual rejection highlights the delicate balance of power in South Asia, where Trump’s aggressive overtures risk alienating key players. With the Taliban consolidating control and China deepening economic ties, any US bid for Bagram could unravel fragile diplomatic progress and escalate frictions with Beijing. As Trump pushes for a foothold near China’s sensitive borders, the world watches whether this gambit will foster security or fuel a new flashpoint.
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