In a significant development, the Taliban has released two American citizens held in Afghanistan, Ryan Corbett and William Wallace McKenty, in exchange for an Afghan national sentenced in the US for drug trafficking and terrorism. This agreement comes after extensive negotiations and is seen as a potential step towards future dialogues between the Taliban and the United States.
US Secures Freedom of Two Americans in Exchange for Taliban Member
US Secures Freedom of Two Americans in Exchange for Taliban Member
Two American detainees are freed by the Taliban in return for an Afghan prisoner held in the US.
Ryan Corbett and William Wallace McKenty, whose families confirmed their release, have been held by the Taliban for more than two years. The exchanged Afghan prisoner, Khan Mohmmad, had been serving a life sentence in the U.S. after being convicted of drug trafficking and terrorism-related charges. The Taliban government in Kabul announced the exchange, describing it as the result of "long and fruitful negotiations" and expressing hope for improved relations with the U.S.
Corbett's family shared their overwhelming gratitude for his safe return, which they celebrated as the end of a challenging 894-day ordeal. Corbett, who had lived in Afghanistan for years, was detained during a business trip. Meanwhile, details regarding McKenty remain scarce as his family requests privacy amidst this emotional time.
Khan Mohmmad, once a member of the Taliban, was captured during the U.S. military operations and imprisoned in 2008. His return to Afghanistan was perceived by the Taliban as a breakthrough in their relations with the U.S., asserting that such engagements could pave the way for further diplomacy.
Despite the swap, the formal recognition of the Taliban regime by any country remains elusive. Other Americans are still believed to be held in Afghanistan, indicating that this exchange might not be an isolated incident. Furthermore, the Taliban continues to push for the release of an Afghan detainee still held at Guantanamo Bay, highlighting ongoing tensions and potential negotiations in the future.
The backdrop to this exchange includes past threats from former President Trump regarding humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, linked to the Taliban's actions post-U.S. withdrawal in 2021. Military assets worth billions were reportedly left behind, underlining the complex legacy of U.S.-Taliban relations.
