Agate is seen at the Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, Friday, June 25, 2021. President Donald Trump has suggested he’s working to reestablish a U.S presence at Begram Air base in Afghanistan.
U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at reestablishing a military presence at Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. His comments come four years after America’s chaotic withdrawal left the strategic base in Taliban control. Trump tied the proposal to growing tensions with China, describing it as a potential move to strengthen U.S. global security.
The remark surfaced during a press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London. When asked about the war in Ukraine, Trump shifted focus, saying, “We’re trying to get it back,” referring to Bagram Air Base. He stressed that its location makes it vital in countering China’s military advances.
Bagram Base and the U.S. Withdrawal from Afghanistan
Bagram Air Base once stood at the center of America’s longest war. During Trump’s presidency, his administration signed a deal with the Taliban to facilitate U.S. withdrawal. However, the exit was carried out under President Joe Biden in 2021 and quickly descended into chaos.
The U.S.-backed Afghan government collapsed. A suicide bombing killed 13 American troops and 170 civilians. Thousands of Afghans rushed to Kabul airport, desperate to flee before the last American plane departed. The Biden administration faced fierce criticism for the handling of the withdrawal.
Trump has repeatedly used the Afghanistan withdrawal as a political weapon against Biden. He argues the rushed exit weakened U.S. credibility and emboldened adversaries such as Russia.
Trump Blames Biden for “Disaster” in Afghanistan
Trump has often emphasized that his plan was different. According to him, his administration intended to leave Afghanistan “with strength and dignity.” He insists Bagram should never have been surrendered.
On Air Force One, Trump doubled down on his stance. “It’s one of the most powerful bases in the world,” he said. “You can land anything on it. We gave it away for nothing.”
He also claimed Biden’s “gross incompetence” in Afghanistan encouraged Russian President Vladimir Putin to invade Ukraine. “He would have never done what he did except that he didn’t respect U.S. leadership,” Trump remarked.
Why Trump Wants Bagram Back
The heart of Trump’s argument is Bagram’s proximity to China. Located just an hour away from facilities where China allegedly develops nuclear weapons, the base carries immense strategic importance.
“One of the reasons we want that base is because of China,” Trump said. “A lot of things are happening there.”
His comments underscore Washington’s growing focus on Beijing as its primary global rival, both militarily and economically.
Taliban’s Response to Trump’s Proposal
Despite Trump’s remarks, it remains unclear whether any official discussions have been held with the Taliban. Since retaking power in 2021, the Taliban have battled economic struggles, internal divisions, and challenges from rival militant groups.
Trump suggested the Taliban might allow a U.S. return if it benefits them. “They need things from us,” he hinted.
However, Taliban officials dismissed the idea. Zakir Jalaly, a Foreign Ministry official, said Afghanistan rejects any foreign military presence. He stated, “Afghans have not accepted a military presence in history. This possibility was completely rejected during the Doha talks.”
Still, Jalaly added that Afghanistan remains open to political and economic relations with the U.S. based on “mutual respect and common interests.”
Ongoing U.S.-Taliban Contacts
While the U.S. and Taliban maintain no formal diplomatic ties, indirect engagement continues. In recent months, talks have centered on hostage negotiations and prisoner exchanges.
Earlier this year, the Taliban released an American tourist who had been kidnapped more than two years ago. Just last week, they confirmed a deal with U.S. envoys on a detainee swap, though no details were disclosed.
Photos from Kabul showed Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi meeting with Trump’s special envoy for hostage response, Adam Boehler.
For now, U.S. Central Command and the Pentagon have deferred all questions about Bagram Air Base to the White House, which has yet to issue a clear stance.
Conclusion
Trump’s push to regain Bagram Air Base highlights the enduring debate over America’s role in Afghanistan. While Biden’s withdrawal remains controversial, the idea of a U.S. return under Taliban control poses new complexities. With China looming large as Washington’s top rival, Bagram’s strategic value keeps the base at the center of geopolitical conversations.
