President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to the Taliban on Saturday, demanding the return of Bagram Air Base to U.S. control.
Trump posted on Truth Social, “If Afghanistan doesn’t give Bagram Airbase back to those that built it, the United States of America, BAD THINGS ARE GOING TO HAPPEN!!!”
The president has spent days highlighting the strategic importance of reclaiming the base.
Bagram was a central hub for the U.S. military during its 20-year war against the Taliban and Al Qaeda. The base fell to the Taliban after President Joe Biden ordered the withdrawal of U.S. forces in August 2021.
Millions of dollars in military equipment, vehicles, and weapons were left behind and are now in Taliban hands.
Trump said Bagram’s location is critical because of its proximity to where China manufactures nuclear weapons, per the Daily Mail.
“We’re trying to get it back,” Trump told the Daily Mail. “It’s an hour away from where China makes its nuclear weapons.”
Experts say retaking Bagram would require a massive military effort. A former U.S. official told Reuters that more than 10,000 troops would be needed to hold the base effectively.
Troops would have to repair the facility, resupply it, and