Afghan forces and the Taliban have clashed repeatedly across the country as American and other foreign soldiers get set to fully leave by September 11 this year.

Biden set to meet Afghanistan President Ghani amid troop pullout

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken unequivocally said on Friday that Taliban's actions are not helping establish peace in war-torn Afghanistan. While speaking at a news conference in Paris, he said that actions of taking the country by force were "inconsistent" with the goal of establishing peace in the country.

"We`re looking very carefully at the situation on the ground in Afghanistan and were also looking very hard whether the Taliban is at all serious about peaceful resolution of the conflict," Blinken told a joint news conference with his French counterpart.

"Actions that try to take the country by force, of course, are totally inconsistent with finding a peaceful resolution," Blinken added.

The US is currently in the process of withdrawing all troops from Afghanistan bringing an end to the war that spanned two decades. However, fears of Taliban takeover have risen because of increased violence in the country.

Earlier this week, Talliban captured Afghanistan border-crossing with Tajikistan. The terrorist group has also surrounded Kunduz, a city in northern Afghanistan. The residents fear a siege by Taliban. Afghan government forces are present in the city and reinforcements have come as well. The situation remains grim.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken unequivocally said on Friday that Taliban's actions are not helping establish peace in war-torn Afghanistan. While speaking at a news conference in Paris, he said that actions of taking the country by force were "inconsistent" with the goal of establishing peace in the country.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken unequivocally said on Friday that Taliban's actions are not helping establish peace in war-torn Afghanistan. While speaking at a news conference in Paris, he said that actions of taking the country by force were "inconsistent" with the goal of establishing peace in the country. "We`re looking very carefully at the situation on the ground in Afghanistan and were also looking very hard whether the Taliban is at all serious about peaceful resolution of the conflict," Blinken told a joint news conference with his French counterpart. "Actions that try to take the country by force, of course, are totally inconsistent with finding a peaceful resolution," Blinken added. The US is currently in the process of withdrawing all troops from Afghanistan bringing an end to the war that spanned two decades. However, fears of Taliban takeover have risen because of increased violence in the country. Earlier this week, Talliban captured Afghanistan border-crossing with Tajikistan. The terrorist group has also surrounded Kunduz, a city in northern Afghanistan. The residents fear a siege by Taliban. Afghan government forces are present in the city and reinforcements have come as well. The situation remains grim. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban's actions 'inconsistent' with establishing peace in Afghanistan: Blinken

According to reports, the Biden administration is preparing to relocate thousands of Afghan coalition aides to third nations to keep them safe from the Taliban while they wait for the US to approve visas for them and their families.

US to relocate Afghan coalition aides as they fear reprisal from Taliban

Joe Biden will be meeting Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani in Washington on Friday(25 June) amid an ongoing US military withdrawal and Taliban resurgence.

Afghan President to meet Joe Biden amid rise in Taliban attacks

Afghanistan's envoy to India Farid Mamundzay has said that India can send the "right message" to the Taliban to cut ties with international and regional terror groups. The comments come in the backdrop of unconfirmed reports of India and the Taliban engaging in parleys.&nbsp;Neither side has acknowledged this.

Speaking to &nbsp;WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mamundzay said, "should those messages be communicated to the Taliban...it would have a very positive impact on our security. "

Earlier this week, a Qatari official confirmed that Indian delegation met the Taliban in Doha. The development comes as US forces leave the country after 2 decades that many see changed the regional security situation. The Afghan envoy also dismissed reports of the Taliban toppling the Afghan government as reported in western media.&nbsp;

Wion: Reports suggest Kabul will fall, also increased violence level with Taliban gaining control in the north. Your reaction.

Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: The reports which have been published don't fully describe the strength of Afghan national defense and security forces. Our forces are in full control of the country. Yes, the situation is intense in the number of districts and number of provinces but our soldiers, our police officers, our intelligence officers are doing everything they can to secure and keep our people safe. I disagree with the fact that the Taliban would be in a position to take over Afghanistan or topple our government in 6 months' time. The resilience of the Afghan security forces and the determination of the Afghan public, in general, is there to combat terrorist groups in whatever way and form they may be to keep Afghanistan free and safe.

Wion: How do you see the reports of India-Taliban talks. This is what Qatar is also confirming.

Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: We can't verify that, we don't certify that there has been an engagement between the Taliban and the Indian government. Within the Taliban, the nationalist elements, who could be integrated back to Afghan society, forces and people that could be engaged, with whom we believe that talks would be fruitful. The right message, from strategic partners like India, could very helpful. The right message is to cut ties with international and regional terrorist groups. The right message could be to integrate back to Afghan society and become part of mainstream life and politics in the country and let violence go. A recent United Nations Security Council report suggests the Taliban still keeps ties with international terrorist organizations, which is something of concern to us. We would not want foreign fighters on our soil and should those messages be communicated to the Taliban, should they get those messages it would have a very positive impact on our security.&nbsp;

Wion: How do you see India-Afghanistan engagement, at a time when American troops are leaving?&nbsp;

Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: New Delhi has always been a very important partner and we would want this partnership to flourish, to grow more in the years to come. The UN and NATO were here for a specific purpose, that was to combat the international terrorist groups but we are going to remain in this region forever. India's contribution has been phenomenal in every area in Afghanistan. There is a special place in the heart of every Afghan and we would want India to remain, being a key contributor to the development of Afghanistan in every area.&nbsp;

Afghanistan's envoy to India Farid Mamundzay has said that India can send the "right message" to the Taliban to cut ties with international and regional terror groups.

Afghanistan's envoy to India Farid Mamundzay has said that India can send the "right message" to the Taliban to cut ties with international and regional terror groups. The comments come in the backdrop of unconfirmed reports of India and the Taliban engaging in parleys. Neither side has acknowledged this. Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mamundzay said, "should those messages be communicated to the Taliban...it would have a very positive impact on our security. " Earlier this week, a Qatari official confirmed that Indian delegation met the Taliban in Doha. The development comes as US forces leave the country after 2 decades that many see changed the regional security situation. The Afghan envoy also dismissed reports of the Taliban toppling the Afghan government as reported in western media. Wion: Reports suggest Kabul will fall, also increased violence level with Taliban gaining control in the north. Your reaction. Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: The reports which have been published don't fully describe the strength of Afghan national defense and security forces. Our forces are in full control of the country. Yes, the situation is intense in the number of districts and number of provinces but our soldiers, our police officers, our intelligence officers are doing everything they can to secure and keep our people safe. I disagree with the fact that the Taliban would be in a position to take over Afghanistan or topple our government in 6 months' time. The resilience of the Afghan security forces and the determination of the Afghan public, in general, is there to combat terrorist groups in whatever way and form they may be to keep Afghanistan free and safe. Wion: How do you see the reports of India-Taliban talks. This is what Qatar is also confirming. Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: We can't verify that, we don't certify that there has been an engagement between the Taliban and the Indian government. Within the Taliban, the nationalist elements, who could be integrated back to Afghan society, forces and people that could be engaged, with whom we believe that talks would be fruitful. The right message, from strategic partners like India, could very helpful. The right message is to cut ties with international and regional terrorist groups. The right message could be to integrate back to Afghan society and become part of mainstream life and politics in the country and let violence go. A recent United Nations Security Council report suggests the Taliban still keeps ties with international terrorist organizations, which is something of concern to us. We would not want foreign fighters on our soil and should those messages be communicated to the Taliban, should they get those messages it would have a very positive impact on our security. Wion: How do you see India-Afghanistan engagement, at a time when American troops are leaving? Ambassador Farid Mamundzay: New Delhi has always been a very important partner and we would want this partnership to flourish, to grow more in the years to come. The UN and NATO were here for a specific purpose, that was to combat the international terrorist groups but we are going to remain in this region forever. India's contribution has been phenomenal in every area in Afghanistan. There is a special place in the heart of every Afghan and we would want India to remain, being a key contributor to the development of Afghanistan in every area.

India can send 'right message' to Taliban to cut ties with international terror groups: Afghan envoy Mamundzay

Antonov An-225 Mriya the world's heaviest aircraft made a stopover at Karachi airport on Wednesday after taking off from Kyiv’s Gostomel Antonov Airport in Ukraine in its first flight in nearly a year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antonov-an-225-worlds-heaviest-aircraft-flies-again-after-pandemic-delay-393429">Also Read:&nbsp;Antonov An-225 -&nbsp;World's heaviest aircraft flies again after pandemic delay</a>

The big bird landed in Karachi's Jinnah International Airport from Afghanistan. The plane is reportedly carrying&nbsp;military cargo from Afghanistan as US and NATO troops pull out of the region.

The aircraft last flew in August last year to Tel Aviv. It was grounded last year amid the coronavirus crisis as air traffic dipped. The latest flight was closely tracked by enthusiasts worldwide, especially in Pakistan as it landed.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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World’s heaviest cargo aircraft Antonov An-225 Mriya at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karachi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karachi</a> airport which made a technical stopover yesterday after taking off from Kabul. <a href="https://t.co/FExpx73WyI">pic.twitter.com/FExpx73WyI</a>
— Furqan T. Siddiqui (@furqantsiddiqui) <a href="https://twitter.com/furqantsiddiqui/status/1407981753747312642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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The Worlds Largest Airplane Antonov AN-225 Mriya Landing at Karachi (OPKC).<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AN225?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AN225</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Antonov225?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Antonov225</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Antonov?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Antonov</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mriya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mriya</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OPKC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OPKC</a> <a href="https://t.co/9DX9dc4ptd">pic.twitter.com/9DX9dc4ptd</a>
— Sohail Ahmed (@sohailahmedsa) <a href="https://twitter.com/sohailahmedsa/status/1407700529736826882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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✈️ Antonov Airlines 
An-225 
Left Karachi with 3 RAF Puma helicopters on their way back from Afghanistan <a href="https://t.co/d0RRH4xIzu">pic.twitter.com/d0RRH4xIzu</a>
— Intel Air &amp; Sea (@air_intel) <a href="https://twitter.com/air_intel/status/1407951623649906689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The strategic cargo aircraft was built during the Soviet era in the 1980s and flew for the first time in 1988. The plane has the longest wingspan including 32 wheels and six turbofan engines.

It was initially designed to airlift Soviet rocket boosters and Buran-class orbiters but was put in storage in the 90s after the collapse of the former Soviet Union. It was brought back into service as demand grew for moving large cargo.

The Antonov An-225 undertook the first commercial flight in 2002 when it flew from Stuttgart to Oman for the American military personnel. The plane is part of Antonov Airlines. The An-225 has undertaken several emergency operations including in disaster zones worldwide.

It has carried everything from wind turbine blades, battle tanks, tonnes of ready-to-eat meals for the US forces and even carried 150-tonne generators.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Antonov An-225 Mriya the world's heaviest aircraft made a stopover at Karachi airport on Wednesday after taking off from Kyiv’s Gostomel Antonov Airport in Ukraine in its first flight in nearly a year.

Antonov An-225 Mriya the world's heaviest aircraft made a stopover at Karachi airport on Wednesday after taking off from Kyiv’s Gostomel Antonov Airport in Ukraine in its first flight in nearly a year. Also Read: Antonov An-225 - World's heaviest aircraft flies again after pandemic delay The big bird landed in Karachi's Jinnah International Airport from Afghanistan. The plane is reportedly carrying military cargo from Afghanistan as US and NATO troops pull out of the region. The aircraft last flew in August last year to Tel Aviv. It was grounded last year amid the coronavirus crisis as air traffic dipped. The latest flight was closely tracked by enthusiasts worldwide, especially in Pakistan as it landed. World’s heaviest cargo aircraft Antonov An-225 Mriya at #Karachi airport which made a technical stopover yesterday after taking off from Kabul. pic.twitter.com/FExpx73WyI — Furqan T. Siddiqui (@furqantsiddiqui) June 24, 2021 × The Worlds Largest Airplane Antonov AN-225 Mriya Landing at Karachi (OPKC).#AN225 #Antonov225 #Antonov #Mriya #OPKC pic.twitter.com/9DX9dc4ptd — Sohail Ahmed (@sohailahmedsa) June 23, 2021 × ✈️ Antonov Airlines An-225 Left Karachi with 3 RAF Puma helicopters on their way back from Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/d0RRH4xIzu — Intel Air & Sea (@air_intel) June 24, 2021 × The strategic cargo aircraft was built during the Soviet era in the 1980s and flew for the first time in 1988. The plane has the longest wingspan including 32 wheels and six turbofan engines. It was initially designed to airlift Soviet rocket boosters and Buran-class orbiters but was put in storage in the 90s after the collapse of the former Soviet Union. It was brought back into service as demand grew for moving large cargo. The Antonov An-225 undertook the first commercial flight in 2002 when it flew from Stuttgart to Oman for the American military personnel. The plane is part of Antonov Airlines. The An-225 has undertaken several emergency operations including in disaster zones worldwide. It has carried everything from wind turbine blades, battle tanks, tonnes of ready-to-eat meals for the US forces and even carried 150-tonne generators. (With inputs from Agencies)

Antonov An-225 Mriya, world's heaviest aircraft makes stopover at Karachi airport; Twitter reacts

Districts in Afghanistan are falling without a fight. The Taliban is taking control of more territory, while Afghan soldiers on the ground are surrendering. Palki Sharma brings you five videos that show how the Taliban is taking control of Afghanistan.

Gravitas: 5 videos that show how the Taliban is taking control of Afghanistan

The United States has said that it will not change its Afghanistan withdrawal timeline even as violence rises in the country. The announcement came two days before Afghan President Ashraf Ghani will hold talks with Joe Biden.

US: No change in troops withdrawal timeline from Afghanistan

The United States has slowed down the withdrawal of its troops from Afghanistan. However, Washington is certain that the pullout will be done by the deadline. These developments have created an uncertain situation in Kabul. WION's Principal Correspondent Sidhant Sibal talks with Afghan Envoy to India, Farid Mamundzay on the several ifs and buts regarding US troops withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Afghan Envoy: Don't agree that Taliban will takeover or topple govt

There was fear in the northern Afghan city of Kunduz as residents prepared for a siege by Taliban. The insurgents have surrounded Kunduz. Government forces are patrolling the streets.

Taliban have held Kunduz twice in recent years. The occupation was brief both times. This time, Taliban have captured the surrounding districts and main border crossing with Tajikistan.

"The Taliban have besieged our city," said Qudratullah, a fruit seller who has done hardly any business since fighting first erupted in Kunduz province two weeks ago.

"Even today there is sporadic fighting on the outskirts of the city," said Qudratullah, who like many Afghans uses only one name.

"If the government does not launch an operation against the Taliban, their siege will continue for a long time."

Most businesses in Kunduz remained shut and vehicles stayed off the roads, an AFP correspondent who toured the city reported.

New government forces were deployed in the city and dozens of military vehicles patrolled the streets. The population of the city has swelled due to an influx of rural residents fleeing fighting in the districts

Troops were seen firing sporadically at Taliban positions, and the bodies of two insurgents lay on the ground on the eastern edge of Kunduz.

The city's public health director told AFP that since the fighting erupted a week ago, 21 civilians have been killed and 225 wounded.

Residents said they were suffering from water and power cuts, and few shops were open.

Kunduz resident Hasib said he feared the Taliban would soon launch a major offensive on the city.

"We don't feel safe... We have seen the Taliban capture the city twice before, and we do not want the city to fall again to them," he said.

"The government forces should break the Taliban siege, if not the Taliban will continue their offensives... and their siege will continue forever."

Fighting has raged across Kunduz province for days, with the Taliban and Afghan forces engaged in bloody battles.

On Tuesday the insurgents captured Shir Khan Bandar, Afghanistan's main border crossing with Tajikistan, in one of their most significant gains in recent months.

(With inputs from agencies)

There was fear in the northern Afghan city of Kunduz as residents prepared for a siege by Taliban. The insurgents have surrounded Kunduz. Government forces are patrolling the streets.

There was fear in the northern Afghan city of Kunduz as residents prepared for a siege by Taliban. The insurgents have surrounded Kunduz. Government forces are patrolling the streets. Taliban have held Kunduz twice in recent years. The occupation was brief both times. This time, Taliban have captured the surrounding districts and main border crossing with Tajikistan. "The Taliban have besieged our city," said Qudratullah, a fruit seller who has done hardly any business since fighting first erupted in Kunduz province two weeks ago. "Even today there is sporadic fighting on the outskirts of the city," said Qudratullah, who like many Afghans uses only one name. "If the government does not launch an operation against the Taliban, their siege will continue for a long time." Most businesses in Kunduz remained shut and vehicles stayed off the roads, an AFP correspondent who toured the city reported. New government forces were deployed in the city and dozens of military vehicles patrolled the streets. The population of the city has swelled due to an influx of rural residents fleeing fighting in the districts Troops were seen firing sporadically at Taliban positions, and the bodies of two insurgents lay on the ground on the eastern edge of Kunduz. The city's public health director told AFP that since the fighting erupted a week ago, 21 civilians have been killed and 225 wounded. Residents said they were suffering from water and power cuts, and few shops were open. Kunduz resident Hasib said he feared the Taliban would soon launch a major offensive on the city. "We don't feel safe... We have seen the Taliban capture the city twice before, and we do not want the city to fall again to them," he said. "The government forces should break the Taliban siege, if not the Taliban will continue their offensives... and their siege will continue forever." Fighting has raged across Kunduz province for days, with the Taliban and Afghan forces engaged in bloody battles. On Tuesday the insurgents captured Shir Khan Bandar, Afghanistan's main border crossing with Tajikistan, in one of their most significant gains in recent months. (With inputs from agencies)

Fear in northern Afghan city as Taliban lay siege

Kabul could be captured by the Taliban within a year as US forces withdraw from&nbsp;Afghanistan, but its fall is not inevitable and will depend on a much better-run Afghan defence force, US experts say.

As worries mount that the insurgents could retake power in the war-torn country, experts with years of experience in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;warned that poor leadership, corruption and ethnic divisions in the Afghan security forces offer the Taliban advantages, and that much depends on whether President Ashraf Ghani's troubled government can hold.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-security-forces-eliminate-258-taliban-terrorists-in-last-24-hrs-392487">Afghan security forces eliminate 258 Taliban terrorists in last 24 hrs</a>

The Islamist rebels have taken control of dozens of&nbsp;Afghanistan's 400 districts since the September deadline for withdrawal was set by Washington, where Ghani is set to meet with US counterpart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> at the White House on Friday.

The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that a new US intelligence report estimates that the Taliban could win control of the country's capital within six to 12 months of the US pullout.

Taliban not unstoppable&nbsp;

"There's really no denying the &nbsp;size and the speed of the kind of territorial losses the government has suffered," Andrew Watkins of the International Crisis Group told AFP.

But "the fall of Kabul is not imminent. The Taliban is not an unstoppable military juggernaut," he said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-watching-taliban-gains-as-it-leaves-afghanistan-393536/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Most of the districts the insurgents have claimed are "out in rural areas of the country that have little strategic or military value. There's no military need for either actor to be out there."

Yet some are on transport routes and around provincial capitals.

"The Taliban are strengthening their chokeholds around major cities. They're not necessarily in the near-term future going to try and take those cities," Watkins said.

Afghan security forces have lost the support of US airstrikes on the Taliban in the past year, and their own air force could be weakened if thousands of US civilian contractors, who keep Afghan aircraft flying, depart by September.

Carter Malkasian, a former Pentagon official and now an&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;security expert at the CNA consultancy, said it is only "remotely possible" that the Taliban sweep into Kabul in the near term.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-captures-afghanistans-main-border-crossing-with-tajikistan-393160">Taliban captures Afghanistan's main border crossing with Tajikistan</a>

However, he said, such an outcome is conceivable within a year, as regional capitals are not currently under threat.

"If you see the losses of big cities like Kandahar city or Mazar-i-Sharif, &nbsp;then I would start worrying about Kabul falling," said Malkasian.

Aim to demoralize&nbsp;

James Dobbins, the former US Special Representative for&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;and now an expert at Rand Corporation said he expects the fighting to escalate.

Right now, he said, "the Taliban have certain advantages. But their advantages generally apply in the countryside where their supporters are."&nbsp;

The cities are more of a challenge for the group than when they gained power in 1996: the country is more populous, urbanized, better educated, better connected and more complicated to manage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-makes-further-inroads-in-northern-afghanistan-seizes-border-port-with-tajikistan-393655">Taliban makes further inroads in northern Afghanistan, seizes border port with Tajikistan</a>

"They don't have many supporters in the cities where all the infrastructure is," he said.

"Kabul is now a city of five million people. It's not what it was the last time the Taliban captured it. And I think they'd have a hard time controlling it."

Watkins said the Afghan military is doing what it needs to do, shrinking its footprint to focus on defending population centres and major supply arteries.

And a recent shakeup of the leadership could improve its operations.

"The Afghan military has to demonstrate a strength and a resilience that makes the Taliban reconsider trying to take over the country by force," he said.

However, he added, "The territorial losses the Afghan government has suffered are going to wind up having political impact. There is a potential of freaking out everyone, from rank and file Afghan soldiers and policemen . . . all the way up to the highest political level," Watkins said.

Gaining the upper hand

Malkasian said that the Taliban are focused as much on eroding public morale and confidence in the government as they are on gaining the upper hand in negotiations on a future government.

"Ultimately what they want to do is not to have to fight their way tooth and nail to Kabul or to conquer the rest of the country," he said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fighting-between-afghan-forces-and-taliban-escalates-393605/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"What they would like to see is for the Afghan government to fall apart, so that they can step into a vacuum."

Malkasian insisted that peace talks are important to the insurgents, to lend them credibility if they do end up assuming power.

"The Taliban do care about international recognition. They do care about receiving future assistance," he noted.

Kabul could be captured by the Taliban within a year as US forces withdraw from Afghanistan, but its fall is not inevitable and will depend on a much better-run Afghan defence force, US experts say.

Kabul could be captured by the Taliban within a year as US forces withdraw from Afghanistan, but its fall is not inevitable and will depend on a much better-run Afghan defence force, US experts say. As worries mount that the insurgents could retake power in the war-torn country, experts with years of experience in Afghanistan warned that poor leadership, corruption and ethnic divisions in the Afghan security forces offer the Taliban advantages, and that much depends on whether President Ashraf Ghani's troubled government can hold. Also read | Afghan security forces eliminate 258 Taliban terrorists in last 24 hrs The Islamist rebels have taken control of dozens of Afghanistan's 400 districts since the September deadline for withdrawal was set by Washington, where Ghani is set to meet with US counterpart Joe Biden at the White House on Friday. The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that a new US intelligence report estimates that the Taliban could win control of the country's capital within six to 12 months of the US pullout. Taliban not unstoppable "There's really no denying the size and the speed of the kind of territorial losses the government has suffered," Andrew Watkins of the International Crisis Group told AFP. But "the fall of Kabul is not imminent. The Taliban is not an unstoppable military juggernaut," he said. Most of the districts the insurgents have claimed are "out in rural areas of the country that have little strategic or military value. There's no military need for either actor to be out there." Yet some are on transport routes and around provincial capitals. "The Taliban are strengthening their chokeholds around major cities. They're not necessarily in the near-term future going to try and take those cities," Watkins said. Afghan security forces have lost the support of US airstrikes on the Taliban in the past year, and their own air force could be weakened if thousands of US civilian contractors, who keep Afghan aircraft flying, depart by September. Carter Malkasian, a former Pentagon official and now an Afghanistan security expert at the CNA consultancy, said it is only "remotely possible" that the Taliban sweep into Kabul in the near term. Also read | Taliban captures Afghanistan's main border crossing with Tajikistan However, he said, such an outcome is conceivable within a year, as regional capitals are not currently under threat. "If you see the losses of big cities like Kandahar city or Mazar-i-Sharif, then I would start worrying about Kabul falling," said Malkasian. Aim to demoralize James Dobbins, the former US Special Representative for Afghanistan and now an expert at Rand Corporation said he expects the fighting to escalate. Right now, he said, "the Taliban have certain advantages. But their advantages generally apply in the countryside where their supporters are." The cities are more of a challenge for the group than when they gained power in 1996: the country is more populous, urbanized, better educated, better connected and more complicated to manage. Also read | Taliban makes further inroads in northern Afghanistan, seizes border port with Tajikistan "They don't have many supporters in the cities where all the infrastructure is," he said. "Kabul is now a city of five million people. It's not what it was the last time the Taliban captured it. And I think they'd have a hard time controlling it." Watkins said the Afghan military is doing what it needs to do, shrinking its footprint to focus on defending population centres and major supply arteries. And a recent shakeup of the leadership could improve its operations. "The Afghan military has to demonstrate a strength and a resilience that makes the Taliban reconsider trying to take over the country by force," he said. However, he added, "The territorial losses the Afghan government has suffered are going to wind up having political impact. There is a potential of freaking out everyone, from rank and file Afghan soldiers and policemen . . . all the way up to the highest political level," Watkins said. Gaining the upper hand Malkasian said that the Taliban are focused as much on eroding public morale and confidence in the government as they are on gaining the upper hand in negotiations on a future government. "Ultimately what they want to do is not to have to fight their way tooth and nail to Kabul or to conquer the rest of the country," he said. "What they would like to see is for the Afghan government to fall apart, so that they can step into a vacuum." Malkasian insisted that peace talks are important to the insurgents, to lend them credibility if they do end up assuming power. "The Taliban do care about international recognition. They do care about receiving future assistance," he noted.

Taliban takeover of Afghanistan not inevitable: US experts

The Pentagon said on Monday that it would complete its full withdrawal by September 11, but the pace of the pullout could be slowed given the Taliban's gains.

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban escalates

As a key stakeholder in the reconstruction of Afghanistan, India has been concerned about the post-withdrawal situation and has called for urgent efforts to ensure peace in the region.

'No peace plan presented by Taliban': Afghanistan

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed the insurgents had seized the border post, on the south bank of the Pyanj River.

Taliban capture Afghanistan's main Tajikistan border crossing

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said that the US military could slow down its withdrawal from Afghanistan due to the gains made by the Taliban insurgents.

Pentagon: United States could slow pullout from Afghanistan

A day after Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said the US military could slow down its withdrawal from Afghanistan due to the gains made by the Taliban, AFP quoting officials reported that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sharp-increase-in-taliban-fundraising-on-pakistan-soil-393098">Taliban</a> had captured Afghanistan's main border crossing with Tajikistan.

The development comes as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-security-forces-retake-two-districts-from-taliban-in-takhar-province-392933">Taliban</a> and Afghan forces clashed on Monday outside Kunduz city which was a former stronghold of the militant outfit.&nbsp;

Watch:

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Kunduz is&nbsp;a key trade transit point between Afghanistan and Tajikistan.

The Taliban has already claimed to have annexed at least 50 districts since it launched a major offensive last month as the US announced it was pulling out of the country by September 11.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby had said that the Taliban has continued its attack and the situation in the country has been changing continuously.

Kirby added that the US is constantly looking at the situation "every single day" with decisions being made in "real-time".

The US had said it had already handed over several bases to government troops even as&nbsp; its forces continue to support Afghan troops against the Taliban.

Reports claim at least 2,500 US troops are still in Afghanistan as the Taliban continues to make headway into the country.&nbsp;

On Monday, the Taliban had declared it had captured Imam Sahib district amid heavy fighting with government forces.&nbsp;

A day after Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said the US military could slow down its withdrawal from Afghanistan due to the gains made by the Taliban, AFP quoting officials reported that the Taliban had captured Afghanistan's main border crossing with Tajikistan.

A day after Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said the US military could slow down its withdrawal from Afghanistan due to the gains made by the Taliban, AFP quoting officials reported that the Taliban had captured Afghanistan's main border crossing with Tajikistan. The development comes as Taliban and Afghan forces clashed on Monday outside Kunduz city which was a former stronghold of the militant outfit. Watch: Kunduz is a key trade transit point between Afghanistan and Tajikistan. The Taliban has already claimed to have annexed at least 50 districts since it launched a major offensive last month as the US announced it was pulling out of the country by September 11. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby had said that the Taliban has continued its attack and the situation in the country has been changing continuously. Kirby added that the US is constantly looking at the situation "every single day" with decisions being made in "real-time". The US had said it had already handed over several bases to government troops even as its forces continue to support Afghan troops against the Taliban. Reports claim at least 2,500 US troops are still in Afghanistan as the Taliban continues to make headway into the country. On Monday, the Taliban had declared it had captured Imam Sahib district amid heavy fighting with government forces.

Taliban captures Afghanistan's main border crossing with Tajikistan

"The visit by President Ghani and Dr. Abdullah will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Afghanistan as the military drawdown continues," the White House said in a statement.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani to meet Joe Biden this week

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani will be visiting the United States to meet President Joe Biden this week, as uncertainty mounts over Afghanistan's future after the American military withdrawal.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani to visit US amid military drawdown

Bangi and Khwaja Ghar districts in northern Takhar province were retaken from the Taliban on Monday morning in an operation led by the Afghanistan government and public uprising troops, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defence.

The operation began on Sunday night with the help of the Air Force, and “the districts were cleared of Taliban this morning,” according to the ministry.

"The security forces launched a counter-offensive early Monday in Khawja Ghar and Bangi districts and have regained control of them, forcing the insurgents to flee," an army spokesman in the northern region, Abdul Hadi Nazari said.

Without providing more details, the official said the government forces are in control of both the restive districts.

The Taliban has yet to respond to the operation. 
 
Over the last two weeks, the situation in the northeastern province of Takhar has been critical.

Chal, Baharak, Ishkamish, Namak Ab, Yangi Qala, Khwaja Ghar, and Hazar Samooch are among the province's eight districts that have either fallen to the Taliban or been evacuated by security troops in the last week.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bangi and Khwaja Ghar districts in northern Takhar province were retaken from the Taliban on Monday morning in an operation led by the Afghanistan government and public uprising troops, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defence.

Bangi and Khwaja Ghar districts in northern Takhar province were retaken from the Taliban on Monday morning in an operation led by the Afghanistan government and public uprising troops, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defence. The operation began on Sunday night with the help of the Air Force, and “the districts were cleared of Taliban this morning,” according to the ministry. "The security forces launched a counter-offensive early Monday in Khawja Ghar and Bangi districts and have regained control of them, forcing the insurgents to flee," an army spokesman in the northern region, Abdul Hadi Nazari said. Without providing more details, the official said the government forces are in control of both the restive districts. The Taliban has yet to respond to the operation. Over the last two weeks, the situation in the northeastern province of Takhar has been critical. Chal, Baharak, Ishkamish, Namak Ab, Yangi Qala, Khwaja Ghar, and Hazar Samooch are among the province's eight districts that have either fallen to the Taliban or been evacuated by security troops in the last week. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan security forces retake two districts from Taliban in Takhar province

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani will meet US President Joe Biden on June 25, the White House said on Sunday. Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation will also be present. The meeting comes at a time when fighting between the Taliban and Afghan security forces has surged.

Biden has already announced that all US troops in Afghanistan would be withdrawn before September 11 this year

"The visit by President Ghani and Dr. Abdullah will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Afghanistan as the military drawdown continues," the White House said in a statement.

The statement added that Washington was committed to supporting Afghan people by providing diplomatic, economic and humanitarian assistance.

"The United States will remain deeply engaged with the Government of Afghanistan to ensure the country never again becomes a safe haven for terrorist groups who pose a threat to the US homeland," it said.

However, the Taliban is taking steps to expand its influence across Afghanistan.

Since the United States announced plans in April to pull out all of troops, at least 30 districts have been seized by the Taliban.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani will meet US President Joe Biden on June 25, the White House said on Sunday. Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation will also be present.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani will meet US President Joe Biden on June 25, the White House said on Sunday. Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation will also be present. The meeting comes at a time when fighting between the Taliban and Afghan security forces has surged. Biden has already announced that all US troops in Afghanistan would be withdrawn before September 11 this year "The visit by President Ghani and Dr. Abdullah will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Afghanistan as the military drawdown continues," the White House said in a statement. The statement added that Washington was committed to supporting Afghan people by providing diplomatic, economic and humanitarian assistance. "The United States will remain deeply engaged with the Government of Afghanistan to ensure the country never again becomes a safe haven for terrorist groups who pose a threat to the US homeland," it said. However, the Taliban is taking steps to expand its influence across Afghanistan. Since the United States announced plans in April to pull out all of troops, at least 30 districts have been seized by the Taliban. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani to meet Joe Biden next week

The Taliban said on Sunday that they remained committed to peace talks but also insisted that a 'genuine Islamic system' in Afghanistan was the only way to end war and ensure rights including those of women.&nbsp;

There is a surge of violence across Afghanistan since May when US military began its final withdrawal. The talks between militants and Afghan government have been deadlocked for months. There are also fears that if Taliban returns to power they will reimpose their harsh rule based on extreme interpretation of Islam. Under this, girls were banned from school and women accused of crimes like adultery were stoned to death in stadiums.

Taliban has been claiming that it is committed to peace even when violence is on the rise in the country.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-replaces-defence-minister-as-taliban-gains-ground-392617">Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground</a>

"Our very participation in the negotiations... indicates openly that we believe in resolving issues through (mutual) understanding," said Taliban co-founder and deputy leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar on Sunday&nbsp;

He said that only way to end conflict in Afghanistan was the establishment of Islamic system after departure of all foreign forces.

"A genuine Islamic system is the best mean for solution of all issues of the Afghans," Baradar said.

His statement acknowledged the fears in Afghanistan and abroad about the kind of system that would emerge -- and its impact on women -- saying that fell "within the ambit of the intra-Afghan negotiations".

Baradar also assured that the rights of all Afghans including women would be accommodated in that system, according to "the glorious religion of Islam" and Afghan traditions.

However, there are strong fears that Taliban's interpretation of rights will be antagonistic to changes that have taken place since 2001.

In May, a US intelligence report said the gains made over the past two decades on women's rights would be rolled back if the militants returned to power.

As the US military presses ahead to meet the September 11 deadline to complete the troop withdrawal, the Taliban have fought daily battles with government forces and claim to have captured 40 districts.

The growing fear and uncertainty about the future have forced many Afghans to try and leave, including thousands of men and women who fear reprisals because they worked with foreign forces.

Baradar called on Afghan youths to not leave the country, and also stressed that the Taliban would ensure that minorities, humanitarian organisations and diplomats had nothing to fear.

The recent losses faced by government troops have forced President Ashraf Ghani to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-replaces-defence-minister-as-taliban-gains-ground-392617">change his defence and interior ministers</a>.

On Saturday, he announced the changes and called on the Taliban to make a choice between peace and enmity with the government.

"If they choose enmity then the people will respond to them decisively," he said late on Saturday in a statement issued by the palace.

(With inputs&nbsp;from agencies)

The Taliban said on Sunday that they remained committed to peace talks but also insisted that a 'genuine Islamic system' in Afghanistan was the only way to end war and ensure rights including those of women.

The Taliban said on Sunday that they remained committed to peace talks but also insisted that a 'genuine Islamic system' in Afghanistan was the only way to end war and ensure rights including those of women. There is a surge of violence across Afghanistan since May when US military began its final withdrawal. The talks between militants and Afghan government have been deadlocked for months. There are also fears that if Taliban returns to power they will reimpose their harsh rule based on extreme interpretation of Islam. Under this, girls were banned from school and women accused of crimes like adultery were stoned to death in stadiums. Taliban has been claiming that it is committed to peace even when violence is on the rise in the country. Also Read | Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground "Our very participation in the negotiations... indicates openly that we believe in resolving issues through (mutual) understanding," said Taliban co-founder and deputy leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar on Sunday He said that only way to end conflict in Afghanistan was the establishment of Islamic system after departure of all foreign forces. "A genuine Islamic system is the best mean for solution of all issues of the Afghans," Baradar said. His statement acknowledged the fears in Afghanistan and abroad about the kind of system that would emerge -- and its impact on women -- saying that fell "within the ambit of the intra-Afghan negotiations". Baradar also assured that the rights of all Afghans including women would be accommodated in that system, according to "the glorious religion of Islam" and Afghan traditions. However, there are strong fears that Taliban's interpretation of rights will be antagonistic to changes that have taken place since 2001. In May, a US intelligence report said the gains made over the past two decades on women's rights would be rolled back if the militants returned to power. As the US military presses ahead to meet the September 11 deadline to complete the troop withdrawal, the Taliban have fought daily battles with government forces and claim to have captured 40 districts. The growing fear and uncertainty about the future have forced many Afghans to try and leave, including thousands of men and women who fear reprisals because they worked with foreign forces. Baradar called on Afghan youths to not leave the country, and also stressed that the Taliban would ensure that minorities, humanitarian organisations and diplomats had nothing to fear. The recent losses faced by government troops have forced President Ashraf Ghani to change his defence and interior ministers. On Saturday, he announced the changes and called on the Taliban to make a choice between peace and enmity with the government. "If they choose enmity then the people will respond to them decisively," he said late on Saturday in a statement issued by the palace. (With inputs from agencies)

'Islamic system' only way to Afghan peace: Taliban

The Taliban said Sunday they remain committed to peace talks but insisted a "genuine Islamic system" in Afghanistan was the only way to end the war and ensure rights, including for women.

Talks between the militants and the Afghan government have been deadlocked for months and violence has surged across the country since May when the US military began its final withdrawal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-replaces-defence-minister-as-taliban-gains-ground-392617">Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground</a>

Fears are also growing that if the Taliban return to power they will reimpose their harsh version of Islamic law, under which girls were banned from school and women accused of crimes such as adultery were stoned to death in stadiums.

Despite the rise in violence, Taliban co-founder and deputy leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said Sunday that the group was committed to the peace talks.

"Our very participation in the negotiations... indicates openly that we believe in resolving issues through (mutual) understanding," Baradar said in a statement.

He said the only way to end the conflict in Afghanistan was to establish an Islamic system after the departure of all foreign forces.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-replaces-defence-minister-as-taliban-gains-ground-392617">Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground</a>

"A genuine Islamic system is the best mean for solution of all issues of the Afghans," Baradar said.

His statement acknowledged the fears in Afghanistan and abroad about the kind of system that would emerge, and its impact on women, saying that fell "within the ambit of the intra-Afghan negotiations".

Baradar also assured that the rights of all Afghans including women would be accommodated in that system, according to "the glorious religion of Islam" and Afghan traditions.

'Taliban destroying Afghanistan'&nbsp;

But many fear that the Taliban's interpretation of rights will clash with the changes that have happened in Afghan society since 2001.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/23-afghan-troops-killed-in-clashes-with-taliban-report-392138">23 Afghan troops killed in clashes with Taliban: Report</a>

In May, a US intelligence report said the gains made over the past two decades on women's rights would be rolled back if the militants returned to power.

As the US military presses ahead to meet the September 11 deadline to complete the troop withdrawal, the Taliban have fought daily battles with government forces and claim to have captured 40 districts.

The growing fear and uncertainty about the future have forced many Afghans to try and leave, including thousands of men and women who fear reprisals because they worked with foreign forces.

Baradar called on Afghan youths to not leave the country, and also stressed that the Taliban would ensure that minorities, humanitarian organisations and diplomats had nothing to fear.

The recent losses faced by government troops have forced President Ashraf Ghani to change his defence and interior ministers.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkeys-troops-should-leave-afghanistan-under-2020-deal-taliban-391277/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Saturday, he announced the changes and called on the Taliban to make a choice between peace and enmity with the government.

"If they choose enmity then the people will respond to them decisively," he said late on Saturday in a statement issued by the palace.

Ghani blamed the Taliban for starting the war and accused them of failing to come up with a plan to establish peace.

"As officials of a legitimate government, we are committed to all the humanitarian laws in the war, but the Taliban are violating these laws and are destroying Afghanistan," he said.

The Taliban said Sunday they remain committed to peace talks but insisted a "genuine Islamic system" in Afghanistan was the only way to end the war and ensure rights, including for women.

The Taliban said Sunday they remain committed to peace talks but insisted a "genuine Islamic system" in Afghanistan was the only way to end the war and ensure rights, including for women. Talks between the militants and the Afghan government have been deadlocked for months and violence has surged across the country since May when the US military began its final withdrawal. Also read | Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground Fears are also growing that if the Taliban return to power they will reimpose their harsh version of Islamic law, under which girls were banned from school and women accused of crimes such as adultery were stoned to death in stadiums. Despite the rise in violence, Taliban co-founder and deputy leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said Sunday that the group was committed to the peace talks. "Our very participation in the negotiations... indicates openly that we believe in resolving issues through (mutual) understanding," Baradar said in a statement. He said the only way to end the conflict in Afghanistan was to establish an Islamic system after the departure of all foreign forces. Also read | Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground "A genuine Islamic system is the best mean for solution of all issues of the Afghans," Baradar said. His statement acknowledged the fears in Afghanistan and abroad about the kind of system that would emerge, and its impact on women, saying that fell "within the ambit of the intra-Afghan negotiations". Baradar also assured that the rights of all Afghans including women would be accommodated in that system, according to "the glorious religion of Islam" and Afghan traditions. 'Taliban destroying Afghanistan' But many fear that the Taliban's interpretation of rights will clash with the changes that have happened in Afghan society since 2001. Also read | 23 Afghan troops killed in clashes with Taliban: Report In May, a US intelligence report said the gains made over the past two decades on women's rights would be rolled back if the militants returned to power. As the US military presses ahead to meet the September 11 deadline to complete the troop withdrawal, the Taliban have fought daily battles with government forces and claim to have captured 40 districts. The growing fear and uncertainty about the future have forced many Afghans to try and leave, including thousands of men and women who fear reprisals because they worked with foreign forces. Baradar called on Afghan youths to not leave the country, and also stressed that the Taliban would ensure that minorities, humanitarian organisations and diplomats had nothing to fear. The recent losses faced by government troops have forced President Ashraf Ghani to change his defence and interior ministers. On Saturday, he announced the changes and called on the Taliban to make a choice between peace and enmity with the government. "If they choose enmity then the people will respond to them decisively," he said late on Saturday in a statement issued by the palace. Ghani blamed the Taliban for starting the war and accused them of failing to come up with a plan to establish peace. "As officials of a legitimate government, we are committed to all the humanitarian laws in the war, but the Taliban are violating these laws and are destroying Afghanistan," he said.

Taliban say 'Islamic system' only way to Afghan peace, women's rights

Pakistan's foreign minister has given the Taliban a clean chit in the ongoing violence in Afghanistan. He has accused India of having more influence 'than it ought to' in the region. Why is Shah Mahmood Qureshi dictating India's Afghan policy? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Pakistan's foreign minister accuses India of terrorism

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation. This measure came as the Taliban pressed on to capture new territory. The Taliban now claim to have seized more than 40 districts in recent weeks across countryside.

The presidency announced in a statement that General Bismillah Khan Mohammadi, who fought under the late anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud during a 1990s civil war, has been appointed the new defence minister.

He has previously held defence and interior ministry portfolios. Mohammadi has also served as chief of army staff after fall of Taliban following US-led invasion in 2001.

President Ghani also appointed General Abdul Sattar Mirzakwal as interior minister, the presidency said. Mirzakwal has previously held several regional posts.

Mohammadi replaces Asadullah Khalid who has repeatedly flown out of the country for treatment to wounds suffered after a suicide bomber attacked him in 2012.

The latest cabinet changes need to be approved by the parliament.

US President Joe Biden has set September 11 &nbsp;-- the 20th anniversary of the attacks in the United States that led to the invasion of Afghanistan -- as the deadline to withdraw American soldiers.

Since the Pentagon commenced the final withdrawal on May 1, the Taliban have unleashed a wave of attacks targeting government forces.&nbsp;

The insurgents claim to have seized more than 40 districts since early May, forcing military leaders to strategically retreat from a number of rural districts.

The Taliban are now present in almost every province and are encircling several major cities - a strategy the militants employed in the mid-1990s when they overran most of Afghanistan until they were ousted by invading US-led forces.

On Saturday, the defence ministry confirmed that government troops had retreated from several districts but said they aimed to take them back.

"There is a new, robust and effective plan to retake areas from which we have pulled back our forces," ministry spokesman Rohullah Ahmadzai said, dismissing claims that hundreds of soldiers had surrendered to the Taliban.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation. This measure came as the Taliban pressed on to capture new territory.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation. This measure came as the Taliban pressed on to capture new territory. The Taliban now claim to have seized more than 40 districts in recent weeks across countryside. The presidency announced in a statement that General Bismillah Khan Mohammadi, who fought under the late anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud during a 1990s civil war, has been appointed the new defence minister. He has previously held defence and interior ministry portfolios. Mohammadi has also served as chief of army staff after fall of Taliban following US-led invasion in 2001. President Ghani also appointed General Abdul Sattar Mirzakwal as interior minister, the presidency said. Mirzakwal has previously held several regional posts. Mohammadi replaces Asadullah Khalid who has repeatedly flown out of the country for treatment to wounds suffered after a suicide bomber attacked him in 2012. The latest cabinet changes need to be approved by the parliament. US President Joe Biden has set September 11 -- the 20th anniversary of the attacks in the United States that led to the invasion of Afghanistan -- as the deadline to withdraw American soldiers. Since the Pentagon commenced the final withdrawal on May 1, the Taliban have unleashed a wave of attacks targeting government forces. The insurgents claim to have seized more than 40 districts since early May, forcing military leaders to strategically retreat from a number of rural districts. The Taliban are now present in almost every province and are encircling several major cities - a strategy the militants employed in the mid-1990s when they overran most of Afghanistan until they were ousted by invading US-led forces. On Saturday, the defence ministry confirmed that government troops had retreated from several districts but said they aimed to take them back. "There is a new, robust and effective plan to retake areas from which we have pulled back our forces," ministry spokesman Rohullah Ahmadzai said, dismissing claims that hundreds of soldiers had surrendered to the Taliban. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground

Two hundred and fifty-eight Taliban terrorists were killed and 156 were wounded in last 24 hours during military operations conducted by Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) across the country. Afghan Defense Ministry said on Twitter that the terrorists were killed in several provinces including. Nangarhar, Laghman, Helmand and Faryab.

"258 Taliban terrorists were killed and 156 were wounded as a result of #ANDSF operations in Nangarhar, Laghman, Paktia, Zabul, Herat, Farah, Ghor, Faryab, Balkh, Jowzjan, Helmand, Takhar and Baghlan provinces during the last 24 hours. Also, 76 IEDs were discovered and defused by ANA," the ministry said.

This has come amid recent surge in violence due to Taliban's offensive.

On Thursday, 19 Taliban terrorists were killed and 8 others were wounded in clearing operations conducted in Shah Joy and Shinkai districts of Zabul province.&nbsp;

In a separate operation, 19 Taliban terrorists including a prominent commander named "Abdul Rahman" were killed in operations conducted in Helmand province.As US and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) foreign forces continue to scale down their presence in Afghanistan, the Taliban have been gaining ground in some parts of the country.

Back in April, US President Joe Biden announced plans for US and allied forces to completely depart the war-torn country till September 11 this year.

As the deadline draws near, top Pentagon officials on Thursday said that terrorist groups like al-Qaeda could pose a threat from Afghanistan to the United States and American allies in two years after the full withdrawal of international troops from the country."It would take possibly two years for them to develop that capability," US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had said during a congressional hearing yesterday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two hundred and fifty-eight Taliban terrorists were killed and 156 were wounded in last 24 hours during military operations conducted by Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) across the country.

Two hundred and fifty-eight Taliban terrorists were killed and 156 were wounded in last 24 hours during military operations conducted by Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) across the country. Afghan Defense Ministry said on Twitter that the terrorists were killed in several provinces including. Nangarhar, Laghman, Helmand and Faryab. "258 Taliban terrorists were killed and 156 were wounded as a result of #ANDSF operations in Nangarhar, Laghman, Paktia, Zabul, Herat, Farah, Ghor, Faryab, Balkh, Jowzjan, Helmand, Takhar and Baghlan provinces during the last 24 hours. Also, 76 IEDs were discovered and defused by ANA," the ministry said. This has come amid recent surge in violence due to Taliban's offensive. On Thursday, 19 Taliban terrorists were killed and 8 others were wounded in clearing operations conducted in Shah Joy and Shinkai districts of Zabul province. In a separate operation, 19 Taliban terrorists including a prominent commander named "Abdul Rahman" were killed in operations conducted in Helmand province.As US and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) foreign forces continue to scale down their presence in Afghanistan, the Taliban have been gaining ground in some parts of the country. Back in April, US President Joe Biden announced plans for US and allied forces to completely depart the war-torn country till September 11 this year. As the deadline draws near, top Pentagon officials on Thursday said that terrorist groups like al-Qaeda could pose a threat from Afghanistan to the United States and American allies in two years after the full withdrawal of international troops from the country."It would take possibly two years for them to develop that capability," US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had said during a congressional hearing yesterday. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan security forces eliminate 258 Taliban terrorists in last 24 hrs

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that India's role in Afghanistan is more than it should be. He sought to question the need for India to have a large presence in Afghanistan simply on the ground that the two countries do not share a border.

Pak FM Qureshi says India has an excessive presence in Afghanistan

Top Pentagon leaders said that international terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda could pose a threat to the US homeland from Afghanistan within two years.

Pentagon: Terrorists could pose a threat to US in two years from Afghanistan

'Sangorians' take a page from insurgent playbook in fight against Taliban

The US Embassy in Kabul was placed on lockdown as COVID-19 cases surge in Afghanistan. At least 114 employees have been tested positive for the coronavirus and are currently in isolation.

COVID-19 outbreak hits US Embassy in Afghanistan, 114 staffers tested positive

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban in northern region of the country led to at least 23 casualties for the troops, TOLO news reported on Thursday. The hostilities erupted as the security forces on Wednesday carried out a clearing operation in the Dawlat Abad district.

"At least 23 commandos were killed and six policemen were wounded in the clashes," a source was quoted by TOLO news as saying.

After the unrest, the military relocated from district center to another area,&nbsp;as per the report.

Sohrab Azimi, a retired general, and son of the former spokesman for the defence ministry, was among the deceased.

According to the media outlet, the district center has been taken over by Taliban militants a week ago.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has been beset with violence in spite of the peace talks as international forces withdraw from the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban in northern region of the country led to at least 23 casualties for the troops, TOLO news reported on Thursday. The hostilities erupted as the security forces on Wednesday carried out a clearing operation in the Dawlat Abad district.

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban in northern region of the country led to at least 23 casualties for the troops, TOLO news reported on Thursday. The hostilities erupted as the security forces on Wednesday carried out a clearing operation in the Dawlat Abad district. "At least 23 commandos were killed and six policemen were wounded in the clashes," a source was quoted by TOLO news as saying. After the unrest, the military relocated from district center to another area, as per the report. Sohrab Azimi, a retired general, and son of the former spokesman for the defence ministry, was among the deceased. According to the media outlet, the district center has been taken over by Taliban militants a week ago. Afghanistan has been beset with violence in spite of the peace talks as international forces withdraw from the country. (With inputs from agencies)

23 Afghan troops killed in clashes with Taliban: Report

As the US military completes its withdrawal from Afghanistan in the coming weeks, the Biden administration says it is adding staff to hurry up the visa process for Afghans, who worked for the US&nbsp;government and want to flee to avoid Taliban reprisals. 
 
But for refugee advocates and members of Congress, the effort still isn't enough to ensure that Afghans, who worked as US&nbsp;military translators, guides and in other roles aren't persecuted in large numbers in the months ahead. 
 
"I want the White House's hair on fire," said Maine Senator Angus King, an independent, who caucuses with President Joe Biden's Democratic Party. 
 
"What do I want them to do next? I want them to do everything within their power to solve this problem." 
 
Fighting has increased across Afghanistan ahead of the September&nbsp;11 deadline for withdrawal, which will end a two-decade US-led NATO troop presence since the Taliban were forced from power in the wake of the 2001 attacks on the United States. 
 
Afghans, who worked for the United States during America's longest war, fear the insurgency will target them and their families, retribution for helping foreign forces. 
 
With the final pullout expected as early as mid-July, there appears to be a mismatch between the expectations of refugee advocates and what the Biden administration says is realistic given the legal and practical requirements to process special immigrant visas. 
 
The administration says it has already doubled the number of staff processing cases in Kabul and tripled personnel reviewing petitions at US&nbsp;Citizenship and Immigration Services. 
 
It also plans a five-fold increase in the number of staff in the State Department working on the visas in Washington, a senior administration official said. 
 
"All of these changes have resulted in, over the last couple of months, the largest number of cases processed in the history of the programme in any 60-day period," the official said, speaking about the plans on condition of anonymity. 
 
The plan is to process at least 1,000-1,400 visa applications for Afghans, who worked for the United States, not including their families, every month. By contrast, the US&nbsp;government says, it issued only 237 such visas in the last three months of 2020. 
 
But even with the new effort, the administration says there's a limit to how fast a 14-step, multiple-agency process can move without changes to legislation. If all goes well, a visa could be processed in nine to 12 months. 
 
"Other than that, the 'brute force' approach of just more bodies has gone about as far as it can," a second US&nbsp;official said. 
 
The administration supports legislation in Congress that would allow Afghans to do a medical check upon arriving in the United States, instead of in Afghanistan. It is also supports legislation eliminating the requirement for a specific petition at the Department of Homeland Security. 
 
"That would be another two months that we could shave off," the first official said. 
 
Political talks between the government and the Taliban have largely stalled and it's unclear how the Afghan security forces will perform after troops depart. The Taliban have assured Afghans, who worked with foreign forces of their safety. 
 
But as the clock ticks down, Afghans, who have applied for visas, are becoming increasingly concerned. 
 
Secretary of State Antony Blinken reassured Congress last week of his commitment to Afghans, who worked with the United States, but also suggested any threats to their safety might not be immediate. 
 
"I wouldn't necessarily equate the departure of our forces in July, August, or by early September with some kind of immediate deterioration in the situation," Blinken said. 
 
Blinken acknowledged there were 18,000 Afghans 'in the pipeline' for potential visas. Half of them have expressed interest but haven't yet filled out the necessary forms, he said. 
 
Senator Patrick Leahy, recalling the chaos in Vietnam after the fall of Saigon in 1975 when he was a junior senator, said the matter was urgent. 
 
"They're going to have a target on their back," Leahy said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

As the US military completes its withdrawal from Afghanistan in the coming weeks, the Biden administration says it is adding staff to hurry up the visa process for Afghans, who worked for the US government and want to flee to avoid Taliban reprisals.

As the US military completes its withdrawal from Afghanistan in the coming weeks, the Biden administration says it is adding staff to hurry up the visa process for Afghans, who worked for the US government and want to flee to avoid Taliban reprisals. But for refugee advocates and members of Congress, the effort still isn't enough to ensure that Afghans, who worked as US military translators, guides and in other roles aren't persecuted in large numbers in the months ahead. "I want the White House's hair on fire," said Maine Senator Angus King, an independent, who caucuses with President Joe Biden's Democratic Party. "What do I want them to do next? I want them to do everything within their power to solve this problem." Fighting has increased across Afghanistan ahead of the September 11 deadline for withdrawal, which will end a two-decade US-led NATO troop presence since the Taliban were forced from power in the wake of the 2001 attacks on the United States. Afghans, who worked for the United States during America's longest war, fear the insurgency will target them and their families, retribution for helping foreign forces. With the final pullout expected as early as mid-July, there appears to be a mismatch between the expectations of refugee advocates and what the Biden administration says is realistic given the legal and practical requirements to process special immigrant visas. The administration says it has already doubled the number of staff processing cases in Kabul and tripled personnel reviewing petitions at US Citizenship and Immigration Services. It also plans a five-fold increase in the number of staff in the State Department working on the visas in Washington, a senior administration official said. "All of these changes have resulted in, over the last couple of months, the largest number of cases processed in the history of the programme in any 60-day period," the official said, speaking about the plans on condition of anonymity. The plan is to process at least 1,000-1,400 visa applications for Afghans, who worked for the United States, not including their families, every month. By contrast, the US government says, it issued only 237 such visas in the last three months of 2020. But even with the new effort, the administration says there's a limit to how fast a 14-step, multiple-agency process can move without changes to legislation. If all goes well, a visa could be processed in nine to 12 months. "Other than that, the 'brute force' approach of just more bodies has gone about as far as it can," a second US official said. The administration supports legislation in Congress that would allow Afghans to do a medical check upon arriving in the United States, instead of in Afghanistan. It is also supports legislation eliminating the requirement for a specific petition at the Department of Homeland Security. "That would be another two months that we could shave off," the first official said. Political talks between the government and the Taliban have largely stalled and it's unclear how the Afghan security forces will perform after troops depart. The Taliban have assured Afghans, who worked with foreign forces of their safety. But as the clock ticks down, Afghans, who have applied for visas, are becoming increasingly concerned. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reassured Congress last week of his commitment to Afghans, who worked with the United States, but also suggested any threats to their safety might not be immediate. "I wouldn't necessarily equate the departure of our forces in July, August, or by early September with some kind of immediate deterioration in the situation," Blinken said. Blinken acknowledged there were 18,000 Afghans 'in the pipeline' for potential visas. Half of them have expressed interest but haven't yet filled out the necessary forms, he said. Senator Patrick Leahy, recalling the chaos in Vietnam after the fall of Saigon in 1975 when he was a junior senator, said the matter was urgent. "They're going to have a target on their back," Leahy said. (With inputs from agencies)

US speeds visas for vulnerable Afghans as pullout looms, but Congress wants more

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