Biden administration to review Trump’s Taliban deal

The Biden administration has decided to review the peace deal that was made between ex-president Donald Trump and the Taliban.

A spokeswoman said that the White House wanted to ensure the Afghan militant group was “living up to its commitments”, including reducing violence and cutting ties with terrorists.

Jake Sullivan, President Biden’s top security adviser, has spoken with Afghan officials to confirm the review.

According to the international news agency, the National Security Council confirmed on Friday that President Biden’s new national security adviser, Mr. Sullivan, had contacted his Afghan counterpart Hamdullah Mohib and “made clear the United States’ intention to review” the deal to check the Taliban was living up to pledges it made.

Spokesperson Emily Horne said, “Mr. Sullivan underscored that the US will support the peace process with a robust and regional diplomatic effort, which will aim to help the two sides achieve a durable and just political settlement and permanent ceasefire,”

She also confirmed Mr. Sullivan had discussed US support for protecting the “extraordinary gains” made by Afghan women and girls.

What was the deal?

The Trump administration made a deal with the Afghan Taliban in February 2020. The deal mentions that the US and its Nato allies would withdraw all troops in 14 months if the Taliban upheld its promises, including not allowing al-Qaeda or other militants to operate in areas it controlled, and proceeding with national peace talks.