Trump: “That’s when I knew he was a f-ing idiot”

The Taliban marked the third anniversary of their return to power in Afghanistan with a significant military parade at Bagram Air Base, showcasing a variety of military equipment left behind by the United States and NATO forces during the 2021 withdrawal. Here’s what was featured and the context around this event:

  • Equipment Showcased: The parade included helicopters, Humvees, tanks, and other military vehicles. There was also an array of weaponry on display, which was part of the approximately $7 billion worth of military equipment left behind. This includes:
    • Aircraft: 78 aircraft were left, which could have been part of the parade or at least mentioned in the context of the equipment abandoned.
    • Vehicles: Over 40,000 military vehicles, including Humvees, were paraded or referenced.
    • Weapons: More than 300,000 weapons, which could range from small arms to heavier munitions.
    • Night Vision and Surveillance Equipment: Nearly 42,000 pieces, showcasing advanced technology left in the hands of the Taliban.
  • Event Significance: The parade was not just a display of military might but also a political statement. It was held at Bagram Air Base, once a symbol of American military presence in Afghanistan, now repurposed by the Taliban to demonstrate their control and the failure of the U.S. mission. The event was described as the Taliban’s grandest and most defiant since regaining power, aimed at both domestic and international audiences.
  • Political Messages: During the parade, Taliban officials emphasized their achievements in implementing Islamic law and establishing a military system for “peace and security.” They urged the Afghan diaspora to return and called for international cooperation, showcasing a desire for recognition and normalization of their rule.
  • Public Reaction: On platforms like X, the parade and the equipment left behind have been points of contention and criticism, especially regarding the U.S. withdrawal strategy. There’s a sentiment of embarrassment and frustration over the military equipment now in Taliban hands, with some posts exaggerating the value of equipment left to $85 billion, though official estimates hover around $7 billion.
  • Implications: This parade not only highlights the military capabilities now at the disposal of the Taliban but also serves as a reminder of the geopolitical shifts in Afghanistan post-U.S. withdrawal. It underscores the challenges of leaving behind military hardware in conflict zones and the potential for such equipment to be used against the very forces that once wielded it.

This event served multiple purposes: it was a military show of strength and a political statement, as well as a reminder of the complexities and consequences of international military engagements and withdrawals.

Trump nails it here.

And the vice-president?

Oh, she’s “comfortable” with it…