US Defence Secretary Mark Esper is cautiously optimistic about peace talks with the Taliban which could eventually lead to the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan. A seven day truce is set to begin as soon as Monday during which the Taliban agreed not to target American and Afghan forces in a step towards a nation-wide ceasefire.
Mr Esper said troop levels could be reduced from 12,000 to 8,600 if the peace deal pans out, however officials are cautious after US President Donald Trump cancelled a similar deal in September following a Taliban attack that killed a US soldier.
Peace talks between the Taliban and other Afghan parties are scheduled to begin March 10.
Image: AP
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