The Trump administration has asked Congress for funds to reimburse the Taliban for travel expenses incurred during peace talks.
According to Roll Call, the money is meant to cover lodging, food and travel expenses.
“Even if you leave aside that they are still conducting operations against our interests and allies, having to pay for someone to be at the table undercuts our bargaining position and demonstrates their lack of enthusiasm for a deal,” Steve Ellis, executive vice president of Taxpayers for Common Sense, told Roll Call. “I’m sure the Taliban would like whatever cash we’re willing to give them, but it’s not like they aren’t able to continue funding their fighting. How about using some of that cash instead of American taxpayer dollars.”
U.S. delegates have participated in six rounds of peace talks with Taliban representatives in Qatar since last October.
