In Afghanistan, the Taliban surrounded Kabul and the government capitulated. Negotiations are under way to hand over the country’s leadership to the Taliban.
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The capital of Afghanistan remained the only major city out of their control, but was surrounded by all sides early in the morning.
The change of power will take place peacefully, without storming Kabul, a Taliban spokesman said.
Former Interior Minister and Ambassador to Germany Ali Ahmad Jalali, who is now part of the United States academic community, is said to be the head of the transitional government.
Taliban officials told Reuters that they wanted to take power without going through a caretaker government, but a statement from Afghanistan’s interior minister, Abdul Satar Mirzakwal, would form a transitional administration.
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Photo: Reuters
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According to local and world media, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has left the country. According to unconfirmed information, he left for Tajikistan.
The Taliban expect a peaceful transition of power over the next few days. Kabul was besieged after they took control of all other major cities in Afghanistan in just 10 days.
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Sky News correspondent Stuart Ramsey said he saw a Taliban march in Kabul, but the rebels did not demonstrate with weapons.
Afghan forces, who had gathered in the capital, were allowed to return home. Hospitals and emergency services continue to operate.
The only way out of the city is through the airport, which remains open, but there are already diverted flights. The locals are withdrawing their savings and trying to escape from the capital.
The streets are full, there are huge traffic jams, according to footage shared on Twitter. And on the border with Pakistan, there are long queues waiting to leave the country.
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Photo: Reuters
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“Kabul’s security is guaranteed. There will be no attack on the city. The capital and power will be handed over to a temporary third country, “Afghan Interior Minister Abdul Satar Mirzakwal said in a special statement.
However, few are determined to stay.
“I know the Taliban are here, I’m not afraid of them. We will not return to the dark age. I am a girl and I am not interested in Pakistan, America or anyone. I’m here. “Even if they kill me – what can I be afraid of – this is my homeland,” said Miriam, a Kabul resident.
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Photo: Reuters
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Foreigners can leave Kabul or register with the Taliban administration. The United States is evacuating its embassy staff with the help of 5,000 troops.
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