RASC News Agency: Following the Taliban’s return to power, the United States has been disbursing $40 million per week to the Taliban-controlled Central Bank, a trend that continues uninterrupted. However, recent remarks from figures such as Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and several members of the US Congress, expressing concerns over the ongoing financial support to the Taliban, have sparked calls for an end to this aid. While the funds still flow into the Central Bank, the growing speculation about a potential halt to these transfers has had a detrimental effect on the country’s currency value, according to sources from the Trump administration.
On Sunday, January 12, the Taliban’s Central Bank issued a statement, assuring that necessary measures would be taken to stabilize exchange rates. The bank further emphasized that it has adequate resources at its disposal and would address any currency market shortages as required. Over the past three years, the Central Bank has reportedly auctioned at least $10 million every week to regulate the currency market. Despite the bank’s recent announcement that it would sell $16 million voluntarily, the national currency continues its downward trajectory. As of now, one US dollar is being traded for 74.20 kabuli rupees in the currency markets.
It is important to note that the value of Afghanistan’s currency has been steadily eroding with each passing day, following rumors of the US halting cash aid to the Taliban. While the Taliban continues to secure millions of dollars from regional and global intelligence agencies, the potential cessation of US financial assistance could create significant economic strain on the group.
