Trump seeks return of US military equipment from Taliban

President-elect Donald Trump has linked future U.S. financial assistance to Afghanistan with the return of military equipment left behind during the 2021 withdrawal. At a recent rally, he criticized the Biden administration for allowing billions of dollars worth of military gear to fall into Taliban hands, reiterating that aid should be conditional on retrieving this equipment. Experts argue that the equipment belongs to Afghanistan and that any U.S. claims should be accompanied by compensation for wartime damages. Trump's assertions come as he prepares to take office, amid a backdrop of political tension regarding U.S. foreign policy towards the Taliban. The U.S. Department of Defense estimates that around $7 billion worth of military equipment was left behind, though Trump claims the value is $85 billion. This situation highlights ongoing debates about accountability and the legacy of the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan.