The Taliban have been staging near-daily attacks targeting Afghan forces, causing scores of casualties every week. Their offensive has not let up despite the severe Afghan winter and the Taliban now hold sway over nearly half of the country. The statement appeared directed at toning down last week’s remarks by Khalilzad that reported “significant progress” in talks with the Taliban. The statements also said Ghani thanked Khalilzad for his efforts and praised US endeavors to restart negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban. “But peace talks are not possible unless both sides first agree on a cease-fire,” Muzhda said.

Source: Egypt Independent January 28, 2019 11:37 UTC