India Opposes U.S. Bid to Control Bagram
India has joined Pakistan, China, Russia, and other regional countries in rejecting U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for regaining control of Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. The opposition was voiced during the recent Moscow Format consultations.
Regional Consensus Against Foreign Bases
The joint statement issued after the meeting declared that the deployment of any foreign military infrastructure in Afghanistan or its neighbourhood is “unacceptable.” Although it did not directly name the U.S. or Trump, the reference to Bagram was seen as clear.
Trump’s Proposal and Taliban’s Response
Trump had argued that Bagram’s location made it strategically vital, especially near China, and urged the Taliban to allow U.S. re-entry. The Taliban dismissed the suggestion, reiterating that Afghan sovereignty cannot be compromised and that foreign military presence is not negotiable.
India’s Position in the Debate
India’s stance aligns with its long-standing approach of respecting Afghanistan’s sovereignty and avoiding foreign military interference. While New Delhi does not formally recognize the Taliban regime, it has maintained limited humanitarian engagement and continues to call for regional stability without external bases.
Strategic Implications
Analysts view India’s position as significant, as it signals a broader regional unity against U.S. re-militarisation in Afghanistan. The rejection also underscores growing coordination between Asian powers on sensitive security issues.
