Washington: No Way to a Truce in Afghanistan Except Through a Peace Agreement

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed that the United States is urging the Taliban and the Afghan government to reach a peace agreement. Blinken stated at a press conference from Washington on Monday, "We will assist in every possible way to reach a peace agreement in Afghanistan, and there is no way to achieve a truce except through a peace agreement," adding that "Washington will remain committed to supporting Afghanistan despite the withdrawal of U.S. forces." He also pointed out that Afghan citizens, especially journalists, face significant risks. He emphasized that "the personnel who worked with U.S. forces deserve our assistance," referring to a special resettlement program for Afghans who collaborated with U.S. forces. Additionally, he confirmed that Washington is carefully examining the Afghan immigrant visa program, explaining that those who worked with U.S. forces in Afghanistan fear persecution. He said, "We will begin welcoming the first group of Afghan refugees on Friday." Blinken also expressed deep concern over reports of Taliban attacks on a large number of cities, stressing that the continuation of Taliban offensives undermines the peace process. He warned that Afghanistan could become a rogue state if Taliban attacks persist.