US special representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad expressed dismay on Friday over the Taliban's latest announcement of a Spring offensive.
In a series of tweets, Mr Khalilzad called the announcement “reckless” and described it as “irresponsible to suggest that an increase in violence is warranted because the government announced a security plan.”
The insurgents released a lengthy missive in five languages, including English, saying the fighting would continue while foreign forces remain in Afghanistan.
The announcement is something the militant group does every year, even though Taliban attacks never really ceased during the harsh winter months. The insurgents carry out daily attacks targeting Afghan security forces and NATO troops, and inflicting staggering casualties, including among civilians. Most recently, a Taliban attack near the main U.S. air base in Afghanistan killed three Marines on Monday.
The announcement “demonstrates their indifference to the demands of Afghans across the country,” said Mr Khalilzad.
“The call for more fighting will not advance peace efforts. If executed, it will only yield more suffering and thousands more causalities,” the US envoy.
He added that some members of the group “including fighters and some leaders oppose this announcement.” After condemning the announcement, Mr Khalilzad “Pakistan, Qatar, and other nations that want peace in Afghanistan to do the same.”
The US envoy held direct talks with Taliban last March in Doha that lasted 13 days. The US is hoping to seal a draft agreement on counter-terrorism assurances, troop withdrawal, intra-Afghan dialogue, and a comprehensive ceasefire, before Afghan voters go to the polls in July.
