Washington: US President Donald Trump confirmed that he is in talks with Afghanistan about retaking control of the US Bagram Air Base. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office: “Washington should never have given it up.”

According to National Iraqi News Agency, these statements came a day after Trump confirmed, in a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, that the United States seeks to retake the base, which was used by US forces following the September 11, 2001, attacks. He explained, “At least one factor motivates him to retake Bagram Air Base,” noting its proximity to China, a rival superpower.

Trump emphasized the strategic importance of the base by stating, “It’s an hour away from where China manufactures its nuclear weapons.” This remark highlights the geopolitical considerations influencing the United States’ interest in regaining control of the base.