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US Confirms 'Reduction in Violence' Proposal Negotiated With Afghan Taliban

Ayaz Gul

   ISLAMABAD/BRUSSELS -- The United States confirmed Thursday it has
   negotiated a "seven-day reduction in violence" proposal with the
   Taliban to move toward a political settlement to the war in
   Afghanistan.

   Secretary of Defense Mark Esper made the revelation to reporters at
   NATO headquarters in Brussels, insisting "seven days, for now, is
   sufficient" time to determine whether the insurgent group is serious in
   seeking a negotiated end to the war, America's longest.

   Esper declined to discuss further details, noting he was in the process
   of consulting with U.S. allies about the proposal and the way forward.
   He said the proposed reduction offered a basis for a political
   agreement.

   "We are taking a hard look at it. We are consulting with our allies. We
   are consulting with Congress and others, and I think peace deserves a
   chance. But it will demand that all parties comply with their
   obligations if we move forward," he stressed.

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