Taliban refuses Trump call to return $7bn US arms, calls them 'spoils'
3 Min Read
Taliban has dismissed US President Donald Trump’s renewed demand to return $7 billion in military equipment left in Afghanistan, calling it "spoils of war."
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Taliban military vehicles take part in a military parade to mark the third anniversary of the withdrawal of US-led troops from Afghanistan, in Bagram Air Base in the Parwan Province of Afghanistan, on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024. (AP)
US President Donald Trump has once again called for the return of $7 billion worth of military equipment left in Afghanistan, slamming the Biden administration for what he called a disastrous withdrawal.
Speaking at a political rally, Trump described the situation as “the greatest embarrassment in American history.”
The weapons and vehicles were abandoned during the US military’s exit in 2021, allowing Taliban to seize a vast arsenal, including firearms, military vehicles, drones, and communication systems.
Trump urged the US government to take decisive action, warning that these weapons could pose a global security threat.
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid dismissed Trump’s statements as unrealistic, asserting that the equipment now belongs to Afghanistan. “The weapons left behind by American forces now belong to our people in Afghanistan,” Mujahid stated. “If anyone wants to take them from us, we will respond using those very weapons.”
'Spoils of war'
The Taliban movement insists that the military assets are “spoils of war” and that they now serve Afghanistan’s defense needs. Mujahid also emphasized that the group will not negotiate on the matter, making it clear that no foreign power can dictate terms to Afghanistan.
Experts claim that the abandoned weaponry has significantly bolstered the Taliban’s military strength. Some fear that the equipment could be used against neighboring countries, while others worry it may end up in the hands of extremist groups.
Critics argue that the US withdrawal strategy failed to prevent these risks, calling the decision to leave advanced military assets behind reckless. Some officials believe the situation could further destabilize South and Central Asia.
The big picture
Trump’s remarks have reignited debates over the chaotic US withdrawal. His supporters argue that the abandoned weapons pose a serious threat and blame the Biden administration for failing to secure them.
However, experts note that retrieving the military assets is nearly impossible. Taliban is now in full control of Afghanistan, and with no US military presence in the country, any effort to reclaim the equipment would require direct military action—an unlikely scenario.
The Taliban’s outright rejection of Trump’s demand underscores the long-term consequences of the US exit. While Trump’s call resonates with his base, analysts believe the military assets are now beyond US reach.
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