Inside pictures of plane at Kabul airport as Afghans battle to flee Taliban rule

Afghanistan's neighbour Uzbekistan on Tuesday said that they are in close contact with the Taliban and that they will "strictly suppress" any attempts to breach their borders after the insurgent group seized power in the country.

The former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan, one of three Central Asian countries bordering Afghanistan, released the statement following days of mayhem during which Afghan troops illegally crossed into the republic to escape the Taliban's advance amid the US military pullout.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Uzbekistan's foreign ministry said that it supported the pledge of "internal Afghan forces" for an inclusive government and said Tashkent was "looking forward to achieving a comprehensive peace in the framework of the inter-Afghan talks in Doha."

Ministry officials say that they are in discussions with the Taliban over "issues of ensuring the protection of borders and maintaining calm in the border zone".

Kabul's government collapsed in a matter of days to the alarm of many Central Asian countries.

According to&nbsp;Russian news agencies Interfax and RIA Novosti, over 100 Afghan soldiers had been allowed to land at Bokhtar Airport in&nbsp;the south of the country&nbsp;by neighbouring Tajikistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-they-want-women-to-join-their-government-406258" hreflang="en">Taliban say they want women to join their government</a>

In comparison to other Central Asian nations that border Afghanistan, Tadjikistan has not yet held official talks with the Taliban.&nbsp;

Three fighter planes carrying the soldiers landed in Bokhtar on Monday night, reported RIA Novosti.&nbsp;

Its interior ministry announced Monday that it will hold joint military exercises with China from August 17 to 20 to "combat terrorism in mountainous areas."&nbsp;

A military drill led by Russia took place in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan earlier this month near their borders with Afghanistan.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan's neighbour Uzbekistan on Tuesday said that they are in close contact with the Taliban and that they will "strictly suppress" any attempts to breach their borders after the insurgent group seized power in the country.

Afghanistan's neighbour Uzbekistan on Tuesday said that they are in close contact with the Taliban and that they will "strictly suppress" any attempts to breach their borders after the insurgent group seized power in the country. The former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan, one of three Central Asian countries bordering Afghanistan, released the statement following days of mayhem during which Afghan troops illegally crossed into the republic to escape the Taliban's advance amid the US military pullout. LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul Uzbekistan's foreign ministry said that it supported the pledge of "internal Afghan forces" for an inclusive government and said Tashkent was "looking forward to achieving a comprehensive peace in the framework of the inter-Afghan talks in Doha." Ministry officials say that they are in discussions with the Taliban over "issues of ensuring the protection of borders and maintaining calm in the border zone". Kabul's government collapsed in a matter of days to the alarm of many Central Asian countries. According to Russian news agencies Interfax and RIA Novosti, over 100 Afghan soldiers had been allowed to land at Bokhtar Airport in the south of the country by neighbouring Tajikistan. Also read | Taliban say they want women to join their government In comparison to other Central Asian nations that border Afghanistan, Tadjikistan has not yet held official talks with the Taliban. Three fighter planes carrying the soldiers landed in Bokhtar on Monday night, reported RIA Novosti. Its interior ministry announced Monday that it will hold joint military exercises with China from August 17 to 20 to "combat terrorism in mountainous areas." A military drill led by Russia took place in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan earlier this month near their borders with Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Uzbekistan says in contact with Taliban, warns over border violations

Turkish government officials said on Tuesday they welcomed Taliban fighters' "positive messages" to the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan.

During the past few months, Turkey has held discussions with Taliban leaders about a range of topics, including its offer to protect Kabul's airport following the withdrawal of US troops.

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On Monday, Turkey evacuated more than 300 Turkish nationals from Afghanistan after Taliban forces moved into the capital over the weekend. The country also moved its embassy staff to the safety of the airport.

Speaking at an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, the Turkish Foreign Minister said Ankara was taking a wait-and-see approach about its offer to protect the airport.

During an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, Turkish Foreign Minister&nbsp;Mevlut Cavusoglu&nbsp;said that Ankara is using a wait-and-see approach&nbsp;about its offer to protect the airport.

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Despite that, he said the Taliban's first remarks were encouraging.

"We welcome the positive messages given by the Taliban to foreigners, diplomatic missions and their own population. I hope we will see (the same approach) in their actions," he said in televised remarks.

Turkish personnel have been playing a role in the security of the strategic air hub for years, pointed out Cavusoglu, adding that Ankara wanted to observe what happens in Kabul to see how the situation plays out.

"We continue a dialogue with all parties in&nbsp;Afghanistan, including the Taliban," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/waiting-for-taliban-to-kill-me-and-others-like-me-says-afghanistans-first-woman-mayor-406254" hreflang="en">'Waiting for Taliban to kill me and others like me', says Afghanistan's first woman mayor</a>

"Right now, (the Afghans) are going to discuss all these issues among themselves. Who is going to take part in the transition, what kind of temporary government they will have. We will see and discuss all of this."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Turkish government officials said on Tuesday they welcomed Taliban fighters' "positive messages" to the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan.

Turkish government officials said on Tuesday they welcomed Taliban fighters' "positive messages" to the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan. During the past few months, Turkey has held discussions with Taliban leaders about a range of topics, including its offer to protect Kabul's airport following the withdrawal of US troops. LIVE Afghanistan crisis: India brings back ambassador, embassy staff from Kabul On Monday, Turkey evacuated more than 300 Turkish nationals from Afghanistan after Taliban forces moved into the capital over the weekend. The country also moved its embassy staff to the safety of the airport. Speaking at an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, the Turkish Foreign Minister said Ankara was taking a wait-and-see approach about its offer to protect the airport. During an event in the Jordanian capital Amman, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Ankara is using a wait-and-see approach about its offer to protect the airport. Also read | Taliban say they want women to join their government Despite that, he said the Taliban's first remarks were encouraging. "We welcome the positive messages given by the Taliban to foreigners, diplomatic missions and their own population. I hope we will see (the same approach) in their actions," he said in televised remarks. Turkish personnel have been playing a role in the security of the strategic air hub for years, pointed out Cavusoglu, adding that Ankara wanted to observe what happens in Kabul to see how the situation plays out. "We continue a dialogue with all parties in Afghanistan, including the Taliban," he said. Also read | 'Waiting for Taliban to kill me and others like me', says Afghanistan's first woman mayor "Right now, (the Afghans) are going to discuss all these issues among themselves. Who is going to take part in the transition, what kind of temporary government they will have. We will see and discuss all of this." (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey welcomes 'positive messages' from Taliban, says in talks with the group

Because of the throngs of people who have poured out onto the runways, all military and civilian aircraft have been suspended at the Kabul airport, according to Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby.&nbsp;

"US military forces are on the scene working alongside Turkish and other international troops to clear the area of people. We do not know how long this will take," Kirby said.

Hundreds of Afghan citizens flocked to Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport to catch the final few flights out of the country a day after the Taliban gained control of Afghanistan's capital city Kabul following the withdrawal of US forces.

Hordes of people crammed aboard an aeroplane to fly out of the country, according to videos published on social media sites.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Because of the throngs of people who have poured out onto the runways, all military and civilian aircraft have been suspended at the Kabul airport, according to Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby.

Because of the throngs of people who have poured out onto the runways, all military and civilian aircraft have been suspended at the Kabul airport, according to Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby. "US military forces are on the scene working alongside Turkish and other international troops to clear the area of people. We do not know how long this will take," Kirby said. Hundreds of Afghan citizens flocked to Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport to catch the final few flights out of the country a day after the Taliban gained control of Afghanistan's capital city Kabul following the withdrawal of US forces. Hordes of people crammed aboard an aeroplane to fly out of the country, according to videos published on social media sites. (With inputs from agencies)

All military and civilian flights halted at Kabul airport: Pentagon

The Taliban will be denied access to any Afghan reserves held in US accounts, a US administration official told AFP on Monday.

As US forces were evacuating Afghanistan's capital after the Taliban's swift takeover, the official said, "Any Central Bank assets the Afghan government have in the United States will not be made available to the Taliban."

The central bank's gross reserves totaled $9.4 billion at the end of April, according to the International Monetary Fund.

But most of those funds are held outside of Afghanistan, according to a person familiar with the matter.

It was not immediately clear what share of the assets are held in the United States.

'Security has deteriorated'

The Taliban's seizure of power comes after NATO withdrew its 9,500-strong mission on the back of a decision from US President Joe Biden to pull out his troops.

Afghan president Ashraf Ghani flew out of the country on Sunday night as the insurgents encircled the capital, capping a military victory that saw them capture all cities in just 10 days.

Washington also could block aid to Afghanistan from multilateral lenders like the IMF and World Bank, as it has done with other countries with governments it does not recognize, like Venezuela.

The IMF in June released the latest installment of a $370 million loan to Afghanistan approved in November to help support the economy amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

At the time, the fund said the government had kept its economic program on track despite the fact "security has deteriorated and uncertainty has risen as the peace talks between the government and Taliban stalled, with the US and NATO troops set to withdraw by September."

The World Bank meanwhile has more than two dozen development projects ongoing in the country and has provided $5.3 billion to date, mostly in grants.

The Taliban will be denied access to any Afghan reserves held in US accounts, a US administration official told AFP on Monday. As US forces were evacuating Afghanistan's capital after the Taliban's swift takeover, the official said, "Any Central Bank assets the Afghan government have in the United States will not be made available to the Taliban.

The Taliban will be denied access to any Afghan reserves held in US accounts, a US administration official told AFP on Monday. As US forces were evacuating Afghanistan's capital after the Taliban's swift takeover, the official said, "Any Central Bank assets the Afghan government have in the United States will not be made available to the Taliban." The central bank's gross reserves totaled $9.4 billion at the end of April, according to the International Monetary Fund. But most of those funds are held outside of Afghanistan, according to a person familiar with the matter. It was not immediately clear what share of the assets are held in the United States. 'Security has deteriorated' The Taliban's seizure of power comes after NATO withdrew its 9,500-strong mission on the back of a decision from US President Joe Biden to pull out his troops. Afghan president Ashraf Ghani flew out of the country on Sunday night as the insurgents encircled the capital, capping a military victory that saw them capture all cities in just 10 days. Washington also could block aid to Afghanistan from multilateral lenders like the IMF and World Bank, as it has done with other countries with governments it does not recognize, like Venezuela. The IMF in June released the latest installment of a $370 million loan to Afghanistan approved in November to help support the economy amid the Covid-19 pandemic. At the time, the fund said the government had kept its economic program on track despite the fact "security has deteriorated and uncertainty has risen as the peace talks between the government and Taliban stalled, with the US and NATO troops set to withdraw by September." The World Bank meanwhile has more than two dozen development projects ongoing in the country and has provided $5.3 billion to date, mostly in grants.

Taliban will not get access to Afghan reserves held in US: Official

As the Taliban seize control of Afghanistan, a Chinese official said on Monday that China is ready to further enhance "friendly and cooperative" relations with the country.&nbsp;

Throughout Washington's withdrawal from Afghanistan, Beijing tried to maintain unofficial ties with the Taliban.

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Afghanistan and China share a 76-kilometer (47-mile) border and in the sensitive border region of Xinjiang, Beijing has long feared that Afghanistan might serve as a staging area for Uyghur separatists.

However, in Tianjin last month, a Taliban delegation met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, promising that Afghanistan wouldn't be used as a base for militants.

Chinese investment and economic support were offered in return for Afghanistan's reconstruction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Monday, at a time when the world watched in horror what was happening in Afghanistan, China said it welcomed the chance to strengthen ties with the country, which has long been coveted by bigger countries due to its geostrategic importance.

"The Taliban have repeatedly expressed their hope to develop good relations with&nbsp;China, and that they look forward to&nbsp;China's participation in the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters.&nbsp;

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"We welcome this.&nbsp;China&nbsp;respects the right of the Afghan people to independently determine their own destiny and is willing to continue to develop... friendly and cooperative relations with Afghanistan."&nbsp;

By gaining control of Afghanistan, the Taliban have opened up a strategic door for China, filled with both risks and opportunities.&nbsp;

As per analysts, an administration in Kabul that is stable and cooperative could pave the way for Beijing to expand its Belt and Road Initiative through Central Asia.

Meanwhile, China may be seen by the Taliban as a key source of investment and economic support, directly or through Pakistan - the Taliban's chief regional patron and an ally of Beijing.&nbsp;

So far, China has not recognized the Taliban as the new leaders of Afghanistan, although Wang Yi described them as a "decisive military and political force" during last month's meeting in Tianjin.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the Taliban seize control of Afghanistan, a Chinese official said on Monday that China is ready to further enhance "friendly and cooperative" relations with the country.

As the Taliban seize control of Afghanistan, a Chinese official said on Monday that China is ready to further enhance "friendly and cooperative" relations with the country. Throughout Washington's withdrawal from Afghanistan, Beijing tried to maintain unofficial ties with the Taliban. Live Afghanistan crisis: China says embassy 'operating normally' Afghanistan and China share a 76-kilometer (47-mile) border and in the sensitive border region of Xinjiang, Beijing has long feared that Afghanistan might serve as a staging area for Uyghur separatists. However, in Tianjin last month, a Taliban delegation met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, promising that Afghanistan wouldn't be used as a base for militants. Chinese investment and economic support were offered in return for Afghanistan's reconstruction. On Monday, at a time when the world watched in horror what was happening in Afghanistan, China said it welcomed the chance to strengthen ties with the country, which has long been coveted by bigger countries due to its geostrategic importance. "The Taliban have repeatedly expressed their hope to develop good relations with China, and that they look forward to China's participation in the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters. Also read | Airlines reroute flights to avoid Afghanistan airspace as Taliban enters Kabul "We welcome this. China respects the right of the Afghan people to independently determine their own destiny and is willing to continue to develop... friendly and cooperative relations with Afghanistan." By gaining control of Afghanistan, the Taliban have opened up a strategic door for China, filled with both risks and opportunities. As per analysts, an administration in Kabul that is stable and cooperative could pave the way for Beijing to expand its Belt and Road Initiative through Central Asia. Meanwhile, China may be seen by the Taliban as a key source of investment and economic support, directly or through Pakistan - the Taliban's chief regional patron and an ally of Beijing. So far, China has not recognized the Taliban as the new leaders of Afghanistan, although Wang Yi described them as a "decisive military and political force" during last month's meeting in Tianjin. (With inputs from agencies)

'We welcome this': What China stands to benefit from rise of Taliban in Afghanistan

Life of Afghan civilians: The stark difference between 'then' and 'now'

Taking over Afghanistan by the Taliban represents a failure by the international community, according to British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, who is assessing the West's intervention was just half-done.&nbsp;

"All of us know that&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;is not finished. It's an unfinished problem for the world and the world needs to help it," he said talking to BBC television.

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According to the former British army officer, US President Joe Biden's predecessor, Donald Trump had secured a "rotten deal" with Islamist militants that allowed their return.

In his opinion, the 20-year US-led intervention in Afghanistan had not been a waste, " it wasn't for nothing," but he accused Western powers of being politically shortsighted.

"If it's a failure, it's a failure of the international community to not realise that you don't fix things overnight," he said.

"I'm afraid when you deal with a country like&nbsp;Afghanistan, that is 1,000 years of history effectively and civil war, you manage its problems and you might have to manage it for 100 years.

"It's not something that you just rock in, rock out and expect something to be fixed."

Former US national security adviser HR McMaster has blasted his government for ignoring the Taliban's ability to take over quickly, calling the lack of awareness "wilful ignorance."

The retired army lieutenant general told Times Radio it was "clear that this kind of collapse was going to happen", after the deal brokered by Trump, who sacked him in 2018.

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According to him, the deal weakened Afghanistan's government and security forces, strengthening the Taliban. He said, "We stood idly by and we turned a blind eye. This was utterly predictable."

Foreign policy 'disaster'

Britain's prime minister Boris Johnson has said Britain will assist 3,000 nationals with their departure, but questions are being raised as to why he didn't fight harder against Washington's withdrawal.

Last month, the United Kingdom withdrew the majority of its remaining 750 troops from Afghanistan but announced that 600 soldiers would be returning to assist with repatriations.

On Saturday and Sunday, 370 embassy employees and British citizens left the country, and 782 Afghans are expected to leave in the next 24 to 36 hours, Wallace told Sky News.

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Each day, officials plan to evacuate 1,200 to 1,500 people from Afghanistan. His department reported that the first flight returned to a British air force base on Sunday night.

A report in The Times declared the pullout&nbsp;&nbsp;"unforced and unnecessary"&nbsp;and said it was&nbsp;becoming "the greatest disaster in American foreign policy for almost 50 years".

Tom Tugendhat, the head of the foreign affairs committee, compared the situation to the 1956 Suez crisis, which revealed Britain's limitations as a global influence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taking over Afghanistan by the Taliban represents a failure by the international community, according to British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, who is assessing the West's intervention was just half-done.

Taking over Afghanistan by the Taliban represents a failure by the international community, according to British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, who is assessing the West's intervention was just half-done. "All of us know that Afghanistan is not finished. It's an unfinished problem for the world and the world needs to help it," he said talking to BBC television. Live Afghanistan crisis: China says embassy 'operating normally' According to the former British army officer, US President Joe Biden's predecessor, Donald Trump had secured a "rotten deal" with Islamist militants that allowed their return. In his opinion, the 20-year US-led intervention in Afghanistan had not been a waste, " it wasn't for nothing," but he accused Western powers of being politically shortsighted. "If it's a failure, it's a failure of the international community to not realise that you don't fix things overnight," he said. "I'm afraid when you deal with a country like Afghanistan, that is 1,000 years of history effectively and civil war, you manage its problems and you might have to manage it for 100 years. "It's not something that you just rock in, rock out and expect something to be fixed." Former US national security adviser HR McMaster has blasted his government for ignoring the Taliban's ability to take over quickly, calling the lack of awareness "wilful ignorance." The retired army lieutenant general told Times Radio it was "clear that this kind of collapse was going to happen", after the deal brokered by Trump, who sacked him in 2018. Also read | Airlines reroute flights to avoid Afghanistan airspace as Taliban enters Kabul According to him, the deal weakened Afghanistan's government and security forces, strengthening the Taliban. He said, "We stood idly by and we turned a blind eye. This was utterly predictable." Foreign policy 'disaster' Britain's prime minister Boris Johnson has said Britain will assist 3,000 nationals with their departure, but questions are being raised as to why he didn't fight harder against Washington's withdrawal. Last month, the United Kingdom withdrew the majority of its remaining 750 troops from Afghanistan but announced that 600 soldiers would be returning to assist with repatriations. On Saturday and Sunday, 370 embassy employees and British citizens left the country, and 782 Afghans are expected to leave in the next 24 to 36 hours, Wallace told Sky News. Also read | Willing to develop friendly relations with Afghanistan, says China as Taliban take control Each day, officials plan to evacuate 1,200 to 1,500 people from Afghanistan. His department reported that the first flight returned to a British air force base on Sunday night. A report in The Times declared the pullout "unforced and unnecessary" and said it was becoming "the greatest disaster in American foreign policy for almost 50 years". Tom Tugendhat, the head of the foreign affairs committee, compared the situation to the 1956 Suez crisis, which revealed Britain's limitations as a global influence. (With inputs from agencies)

UK accuses Western powers of being politically short-sighted

Chancellor Angela Merkel's government is planning to deploy soldiers to Afghanistan to help with the evacuation of&nbsp;German&nbsp;nationals and Afghans in danger from the Taliban, parliamentary sources said Monday.

The government will seek a mandate from parliament to allow the deployment of as many as "several hundred soldiers", the sources told AFP, citing a briefing by Merkel to leaders of parliamentary groups late Sunday.

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"An 'air bridge' is to be set up from Kabul, to allow the evacuation of local staff, particularly vulnerable women, human rights activists and other employees from non-governmental organisations, for as long as that is possible," said a source.

The government thinks roughly 2,000 people will need evacuating.

Consultations with the United States suggest it may be possible to run the evacuation operation until August 31, but Berlin may end the deployment earlier, said the sources.

Germany had already begun ferrying out staff from its embassy on Sunday, after moving them to safety at a military section of Kabul airport.

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The first&nbsp;German&nbsp;military aircraft left on Sunday night for the Afghan capital to help with the evacuation.

The military will fly passengers to an unnamed neighbouring country where they will then be put on civilian flights to Germany.

Germany had withdrawn its last troops by the end of June after almost two decades in the country as part of a NATO mission.

The 150,000 people sent by Germany at various points over the years made it the second biggest contributor of NATO troops there, after the United States.

Critics of Merkel's government had however said it had failed to get Afghans who worked for the&nbsp;German&nbsp;military out of the country quickly enough.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's government is planning to deploy soldiers to Afghanistan to help with the evacuation of German nationals and Afghans in danger from the Taliban, parliamentary sources said Monday.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's government is planning to deploy soldiers to Afghanistan to help with the evacuation of German nationals and Afghans in danger from the Taliban, parliamentary sources said Monday. The government will seek a mandate from parliament to allow the deployment of as many as "several hundred soldiers", the sources told AFP, citing a briefing by Merkel to leaders of parliamentary groups late Sunday. LIVE: Afghanistan — Planes 'grounded' amid airport chaos, thousands attempt to flee country "An 'air bridge' is to be set up from Kabul, to allow the evacuation of local staff, particularly vulnerable women, human rights activists and other employees from non-governmental organisations, for as long as that is possible," said a source. The government thinks roughly 2,000 people will need evacuating. Consultations with the United States suggest it may be possible to run the evacuation operation until August 31, but Berlin may end the deployment earlier, said the sources. Germany had already begun ferrying out staff from its embassy on Sunday, after moving them to safety at a military section of Kabul airport. Also read | Willing to develop friendly relations with Afghanistan, says China as Taliban take control The first German military aircraft left on Sunday night for the Afghan capital to help with the evacuation. The military will fly passengers to an unnamed neighbouring country where they will then be put on civilian flights to Germany. Germany had withdrawn its last troops by the end of June after almost two decades in the country as part of a NATO mission. The 150,000 people sent by Germany at various points over the years made it the second biggest contributor of NATO troops there, after the United States. Critics of Merkel's government had however said it had failed to get Afghans who worked for the German military out of the country quickly enough.

German forces to aid Afghan evacuations: Parliamentary sources

Kabul today is a very different place than it was just a few days ago.&nbsp;

The passage of time seems to have passed backwards, 20 years to be exact.&nbsp;

The Taliban are in the city, and the people are scrambling to flee. Governments have abandoned their offices, everyone just wants to get out of the godforsaken city.&nbsp;

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Compared to the previous days, something has changed drastically. One of the most striking differences is that people on the street have changed their clothing, from jeans and T-shirts to traditional shalwar kameez, and no women are seen on the roads.

Traffic is backed up near the airport. People are engaged in&nbsp;a mad scramble for flights that have been cancelled - as well as for military flights to which civilians don't have access.

Eyewitness reports talk of American helicopters circling the air overhead for hours, with pilots looking down. The American pilots knew that the Taliban were in the city,&nbsp;nothing they did could now prevent the capture of the capital.&nbsp;

Shots ring out throughout the day. There's fear in the air, people are scared, what is going to happen.

Eyewitness account tells of US embassy staff being shuttled to the international airport by helicopters during the day as road travel was considered too dangerous.

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Taliban troops were seen marching through the heart of the country's government just outside the presidential palace.

For days now, tension has been at an all-time high in Kabul. The streets, which are usually crowded with people and cars, are now deserted.

Checkpoints for both the military and law enforcement remain unmanned, once again, Afghan troops seem to have vanished.

Many people are walking around with their belongings, looking for a place to stay. Many are from Mazar and have just arrived trying to escape battles throughout the country.

The day the Taliban returned - triumphant after 20 years - will be remembered by all.

Kabul today is a very different place than it was just a few days ago. The passage of time seems to have passed backwards, 20 years to be exact. The Taliban are in the city, and the people are scrambling to flee.

Kabul today is a very different place than it was just a few days ago. The passage of time seems to have passed backwards, 20 years to be exact. The Taliban are in the city, and the people are scrambling to flee. Governments have abandoned their offices, everyone just wants to get out of the godforsaken city. Live Afghanistan crisis: China says embassy 'operating normally' Compared to the previous days, something has changed drastically. One of the most striking differences is that people on the street have changed their clothing, from jeans and T-shirts to traditional shalwar kameez, and no women are seen on the roads. Traffic is backed up near the airport. People are engaged in a mad scramble for flights that have been cancelled - as well as for military flights to which civilians don't have access. Eyewitness reports talk of American helicopters circling the air overhead for hours, with pilots looking down. The American pilots knew that the Taliban were in the city, nothing they did could now prevent the capture of the capital. Shots ring out throughout the day. There's fear in the air, people are scared, what is going to happen. Eyewitness account tells of US embassy staff being shuttled to the international airport by helicopters during the day as road travel was considered too dangerous. Also read | Airlines reroute flights to avoid Afghanistan airspace as Taliban enters Kabul Taliban troops were seen marching through the heart of the country's government just outside the presidential palace. For days now, tension has been at an all-time high in Kabul. The streets, which are usually crowded with people and cars, are now deserted. Checkpoints for both the military and law enforcement remain unmanned, once again, Afghan troops seem to have vanished. Many people are walking around with their belongings, looking for a place to stay. Many are from Mazar and have just arrived trying to escape battles throughout the country. The day the Taliban returned - triumphant after 20 years - will be remembered by all.

On streets of Afghanistan, an air of despair surround the end of 20-year war

Pakistan's Prime Minister appears to be endorsing the Taliban as they take control of Afghanistan.

On Monday, a video surfaced on social media purporting to show Imran Khan praising the Taliban's takeover of the neighbouring nation.&nbsp;

The Pakistan PM appeared to praise the Taliban in a video broadcast on Pakistani television, saying that "they have freed the chains of mental slavery in Afghanistan." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-where-did-us-go-wrong-in-fight-against-taliban-406022">Also read | Afghanistan: Where did US go wrong in fight against Taliban?</a>

Khan made these statements while speaking at a ceremony to inaugurate the first phase of the Single National Curriculum (SNC), which is part of his ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party's platform and covers grades 1 to 5. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-kabul-airport-mobbed-as-afghans-make-a-desperate-dash-to-exit-406021#us-soldiers-guard-406014">Pictures | Kabul airport mobbed as Afghans make a desperate dash to exit</a>

The prime minister explained how Pakistan's parallel education system resulted in the establishment of "English medium" schools and the adoption of "someone else's culture."&nbsp;

When you accept someone's culture, you feel it is superior, and you become a slave to it, he said, adding that it creates a mental enslavement system that is worse than physical slavery.

In the same sentence, he compared Afghanistan's continuous turmoil to the country's people "breaking the chains of slavery." &nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-has-broken-shackles-of-slavery-says-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-405858">LIVE: Afghanistan crisis</a>

The longstanding war in Afghanistan reached a watershed moment on Sunday when the Taliban insurgents closed in on Kabul before entering the city and took over the presidential palace, forcing embattled President Ashraf Ghani to join fellow citizens and foreigners to flee the country.

Pakistan is accused of supporting the Taliban insurgency, which culminated in the country's capture 20 years after it was evicted.

Officially, Pakistan has stated that it wants a broad-based, inclusive administration in Afghanistan and that it is hosting Afghan officials to help them reach an agreement for a peaceful transition.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's Prime Minister appears to be endorsing the Taliban as they take control of Afghanistan. On Monday, a video surfaced on social media purporting to show Imran Khan praising the Taliban's takeover of the neighbouring nation.

Pakistan's Prime Minister appears to be endorsing the Taliban as they take control of Afghanistan. On Monday, a video surfaced on social media purporting to show Imran Khan praising the Taliban's takeover of the neighbouring nation. The Pakistan PM appeared to praise the Taliban in a video broadcast on Pakistani television, saying that "they have freed the chains of mental slavery in Afghanistan." Also read | Afghanistan: Where did US go wrong in fight against Taliban? Khan made these statements while speaking at a ceremony to inaugurate the first phase of the Single National Curriculum (SNC), which is part of his ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party's platform and covers grades 1 to 5. Pictures | Kabul airport mobbed as Afghans make a desperate dash to exit The prime minister explained how Pakistan's parallel education system resulted in the establishment of "English medium" schools and the adoption of "someone else's culture." When you accept someone's culture, you feel it is superior, and you become a slave to it, he said, adding that it creates a mental enslavement system that is worse than physical slavery. In the same sentence, he compared Afghanistan's continuous turmoil to the country's people "breaking the chains of slavery." LIVE: Afghanistan crisis The longstanding war in Afghanistan reached a watershed moment on Sunday when the Taliban insurgents closed in on Kabul before entering the city and took over the presidential palace, forcing embattled President Ashraf Ghani to join fellow citizens and foreigners to flee the country. Pakistan is accused of supporting the Taliban insurgency, which culminated in the country's capture 20 years after it was evicted. Officially, Pakistan has stated that it wants a broad-based, inclusive administration in Afghanistan and that it is hosting Afghan officials to help them reach an agreement for a peaceful transition. (With inputs from agencies)

'They have broken shackles of slavery': Pakistan PM Imran Khan endorses Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan

As Afghanistan’s President, Ashraf Ghani, left the country, Taliban members were ordered to enter and take over the capital city Kabul.

A little after Ghani left the country, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan issued a formal statement that clarified that the Taliban troops have been ordered to enter Kabul and take hold of all checkpoints abandoned by the Afghan forces.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-president-ghani-leaves-afghanistan-as-taliban-enter-capital-kabul-405579" hreflang="en">LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul</a></h2>

However, the Taliban claim they have issued the order solely to protect the city from looting and chaos, and the locals should not be afraid of them.

The spokesperson has also urged locals to stay back in the country rather than fleeing as they plan to utilise the talents of the country. "No one should leave the country...we need all the talents and capacity, we need all of us to stay in the country and participate," the spokesperson said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghan-president-ashraf-ghani-leaves-for-tajikistan-as-taliban-enters-kabul-405773">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghan-president-ashraf-ghani-leaves-for-tajikistan-as-taliban-enters-kabul-405773/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While the social media went abuzz with images that showed Taliban members painting over advertisements that featured women, the Taliban claimed that women will be given more freedom this time.

"We will respect rights of women...our policy is that women will have access to education and work, to wear the hijab,"&nbsp;Taliban Spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on a live BBC report.&nbsp;

The Taliban have also claimed that they have no intention of "taking revenge" from the Afghan forces and the pro-government soldiers and officials should join hands with the Taliban for the 'betterment of the nation'.

As Afghanistan’s President, Ashraf Ghani, left the country, Taliban members were ordered to enter and take over the capital city Kabul. A little after Ghani left the country, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan issued a formal statement that clarified that the Taliban troops have been ordered to enter Kabul and take hold of all checkpoints abandoned by the Afghan forces.

As Afghanistan’s President, Ashraf Ghani, left the country, Taliban members were ordered to enter and take over the capital city Kabul. A little after Ghani left the country, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan issued a formal statement that clarified that the Taliban troops have been ordered to enter Kabul and take hold of all checkpoints abandoned by the Afghan forces. LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul However, the Taliban claim they have issued the order solely to protect the city from looting and chaos, and the locals should not be afraid of them. The spokesperson has also urged locals to stay back in the country rather than fleeing as they plan to utilise the talents of the country. "No one should leave the country...we need all the talents and capacity, we need all of us to stay in the country and participate," the spokesperson said. WATCH | While the social media went abuzz with images that showed Taliban members painting over advertisements that featured women, the Taliban claimed that women will be given more freedom this time. "We will respect rights of women...our policy is that women will have access to education and work, to wear the hijab," Taliban Spokesman Suhail Shaheen said on a live BBC report. The Taliban have also claimed that they have no intention of "taking revenge" from the Afghan forces and the pro-government soldiers and officials should join hands with the Taliban for the 'betterment of the nation'.

'Don't be afraid of us': Taliban take over Kabul as President Ghani leaves Afghan

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-blast-injures-russian-embassy-staff-346820">Afghan</a> government and the Taliban agreed to "procedures" for the intra-Afghan negotiations with discussions set to begin, negotiators said today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/germany-warns-against-rash-actions-over-troop-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-346714">Also Read:&nbsp;Germany warns against 'rash actions' over troop withdrawal from Afghanistan</a>

The two sides had begun talks in September but it got bogged down over several issues amid escalation in violence.

"I welcome the initial major step taken in Doha today agreeing to the procedural framework that paves the way for discussions about the peace agenda," Dr Abudullah Abdullah, who is the chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation, said.

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I welcome the initial major step taken in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Doha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Doha</a> today agreeing to the procedural framework that paves the way for discussions about the peace agenda. I thank the republic’s negotiation team, all facilitators &amp; the host <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qatar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qatar</a> for their valuable support.
— Dr. Abdullah Abdullah (@DrabdullahCE) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrabdullahCE/status/1334117163372859395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Trump administration has decided to pull foreign troops out of the country in exchange for security guarantees and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-demands-apology-from-china-for-repugnant-afghan-tweet-346407">Taliban</a>'s pledge to hold talks with the Ghani government.

"As negotiations on a political roadmap and permanent ceasefire begin, we will work hard &nbsp;with all sides for serious reduction of violence and even a ceasefire during this period," US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad said while reiterating that he now expects "rapid progress on a political roadmap and a ceasefire."

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4/4 As negotiations on a political roadmap and permanent ceasefire begin, we will work hard with all sides for serious reduction of violence and even a ceasefire during this period. This is what the Afghan people want and deserve.
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1334108221297004545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The agreement comes after several rounds of talks in Doha over months spearheaded by the United States government. The Taliban had earlier refused to agree to a ceasefire during the talks leading to a deadlock.

The Taliban said, "the procedures including its preamble of the intra-Afghan negotiations has been finalised and from now on, the negotiations will begin on the agenda."

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The procedures including its preamble of the Intra-Afghan Negotiations has been finalized and from now on, the negotiations will begin on the agenda.
— Dr.M.Naeem (@IeaOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/IeaOffice/status/1334103287080116224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In February, the Trump administration had struck a deal with the Taliban according to which foreign forces were to leave Afghanistan by May 2021 subject to guarantees from the Taliban which included a permanent ceasefire and a power-sharing agreement with the Ghani government.

The talks were given a further boost by US secretary of state Mike Pompeo who called for "expedited discussions" when he met the Taliban representatives and the Afghan government officials in Doha last month. 
&nbsp;

The Afghan government and the Taliban agreed to "procedures" for the intra-Afghan negotiations with discussions set to begin, negotiators said today. Also Read: Germany warns against 'rash actions' over troop withdrawal from Afghanistan The two sides had begun talks in September but it got bogged down over several issues amid escalation in violence.

The Afghan government and the Taliban agreed to "procedures" for the intra-Afghan negotiations with discussions set to begin, negotiators said today. Also Read: Germany warns against 'rash actions' over troop withdrawal from Afghanistan The two sides had begun talks in September but it got bogged down over several issues amid escalation in violence. "I welcome the initial major step taken in Doha today agreeing to the procedural framework that paves the way for discussions about the peace agenda," Dr Abudullah Abdullah, who is the chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation, said. I welcome the initial major step taken in #Doha today agreeing to the procedural framework that paves the way for discussions about the peace agenda. I thank the republic’s negotiation team, all facilitators & the host #Qatar for their valuable support. — Dr. Abdullah Abdullah (@DrabdullahCE) December 2, 2020 × The Trump administration has decided to pull foreign troops out of the country in exchange for security guarantees and the Taliban's pledge to hold talks with the Ghani government. "As negotiations on a political roadmap and permanent ceasefire begin, we will work hard with all sides for serious reduction of violence and even a ceasefire during this period," US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad said while reiterating that he now expects "rapid progress on a political roadmap and a ceasefire." 4/4 As negotiations on a political roadmap and permanent ceasefire begin, we will work hard with all sides for serious reduction of violence and even a ceasefire during this period. This is what the Afghan people want and deserve. — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) December 2, 2020 × The agreement comes after several rounds of talks in Doha over months spearheaded by the United States government. The Taliban had earlier refused to agree to a ceasefire during the talks leading to a deadlock. The Taliban said, "the procedures including its preamble of the intra-Afghan negotiations has been finalised and from now on, the negotiations will begin on the agenda." The procedures including its preamble of the Intra-Afghan Negotiations has been finalized and from now on, the negotiations will begin on the agenda. — Dr.M.Naeem (@IeaOffice) December 2, 2020 × In February, the Trump administration had struck a deal with the Taliban according to which foreign forces were to leave Afghanistan by May 2021 subject to guarantees from the Taliban which included a permanent ceasefire and a power-sharing agreement with the Ghani government. The talks were given a further boost by US secretary of state Mike Pompeo who called for "expedited discussions" when he met the Taliban representatives and the Afghan government officials in Doha last month.

Taliban, Afghan government agree to advance talks to next stage

The Taliban on Wednesday rejected Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's plan to release initial 1,500 prisoners first and then 3,500 later as talks progress.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-government-to-release-5000-taliban-prisoners-if-violence-eases-285520">Also Read: Afghanistan government to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners if violence eases</a>

"We never agreed to any conditional release of prisoners," Suhail Shaheen, spokesman for the Taliban based in Doha, told Reuters.

The Taliban said the terms set by Ghani were against the February 25 accord. The insurgent groups says the release of 5,000 Taliban prisoners by the Afghan government as&nbsp;part of the deal to kick-start the intra-Afghan deal.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ashraf-ghani-agrees-to-taliban-prisoners-release-285643/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US-Taliban pact had set US troop withdrawal within 14 months provided the Taliban keeps peace in the region and opens talks with the Kabul government. However, after President Ghani rejected the deal to release prisoners, the Taliban declared attacks on the government, although it announced foreign troops won't be attacked.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-back-president-ghani-reject-abdullah-abdullahs-parallel-government-in-afghanistan-285467">Also read: US, China back President Ghani, reject Abdullah Abdullah's 'parallel government' in Afghanistan</a>

The release of prisoners which was seen largely as a confidence-building measure has now run into trouble with both sides sticking to their part of the bargain.

The Afghan government had earlier said that the government would gradually release 5,000 Taliban prisoners starting this week if the insurgents significantly reduce violence even as the US announced it had started pulling out troops from two bases in Afghanistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-begins-troops-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-10-days-after-taliban-deal-285385">&nbsp;Also read: US begins troops withdrawal from Afghanistan 10 days after Taliban deal</a>

Afghan government's spokesman Sediq Sediqqi said: "The government will release 1,500 Taliban prisoners as a gesture of goodwill starting Saturday, with another 3,500 to be freed after negotiations begin."

The Taliban on Wednesday rejected Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's plan to release initial 1,500 prisoners first and then 3,500 later as talks progress. Also Read: Afghanistan government to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners if violence eases "We never agreed to any conditional release of prisoners," Suhail Shaheen, spokesman for the Taliban based in Doha, told Reuters.

The Taliban on Wednesday rejected Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's plan to release initial 1,500 prisoners first and then 3,500 later as talks progress. Also Read: Afghanistan government to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners if violence eases "We never agreed to any conditional release of prisoners," Suhail Shaheen, spokesman for the Taliban based in Doha, told Reuters. The Taliban said the terms set by Ghani were against the February 25 accord. The insurgent groups says the release of 5,000 Taliban prisoners by the Afghan government as part of the deal to kick-start the intra-Afghan deal. Watch Video: The US-Taliban pact had set US troop withdrawal within 14 months provided the Taliban keeps peace in the region and opens talks with the Kabul government. However, after President Ghani rejected the deal to release prisoners, the Taliban declared attacks on the government, although it announced foreign troops won't be attacked. Also read: US, China back President Ghani, reject Abdullah Abdullah's 'parallel government' in Afghanistan The release of prisoners which was seen largely as a confidence-building measure has now run into trouble with both sides sticking to their part of the bargain. The Afghan government had earlier said that the government would gradually release 5,000 Taliban prisoners starting this week if the insurgents significantly reduce violence even as the US announced it had started pulling out troops from two bases in Afghanistan. Also read: US begins troops withdrawal from Afghanistan 10 days after Taliban deal Afghan government's spokesman Sediq Sediqqi said: "The government will release 1,500 Taliban prisoners as a gesture of goodwill starting Saturday, with another 3,500 to be freed after negotiations begin."

Taliban rejects Afghan government's offer to first release 1,500 prisoners

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