China Issues Warning as Trump Urges US Return to Afghanistan’s Bagram Airbase

China issued a warning after Donald Trump urged a US return to Afghanistan’s Bagram Airbase, stressing respect for Afghanistan sovereignty and cautioning against heightened regional tensions.

China has warned against regional escalation after US President Donald Trump suggested Washington could seek renewed access to Afghanistan’s Bagram Airbase.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, September 19, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stressed that Afghanistan’s future should remain in the hands of its people. He added that any escalation of tensions or confrontation in the region would be “undesirable.”

Trump, in remarks on Thursday, justified his interest in Bagram by citing its proximity to China. “As you know, it’s only an hour away from where China produces its nuclear weapons,” he said.

His comments sparked wide reactions, including from the Taliban. Zakir Jalali, an aide to the Taliban foreign minister, described Trump as a “successful businessman,” suggesting his remarks about Bagram were framed in the context of a deal.

CNN, citing three sources familiar with the matter, reported that Trump has for months pressed national security officials to explore options for re-establishing a US military presence at the base.

Analysts say the exchange reflects how Afghanistan remains a focal point of geopolitical competition, with Washington and Beijing vying for influence amid ongoing regional instability.

China has reiterated its hope that all parties will adopt constructive approaches to Afghanistan, aiming to promote peace and stability rather than intensify confrontation.

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