Blowback S4 Episode 5 - "We Can Live With That"
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Dec 6, 2023 Explore the rise of the Taliban, from the aftermath of the Soviet Union's withdrawal to the power struggle in Kabul. Uncover the investigation into Mayor Kihana's murder and the connections to al-Qaeda. Learn about the Taliban's formation, their involvement in drugs and pipeline politics, and their strategic PR efforts in Washington. Delve into the United States' efforts to access Central Asia's gas and oil resources and the negotiations surrounding Osama bin Laden's time in Sudan.
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Taliban Pipeline Meeting
- In 1997, the Taliban met with the State Department to discuss a pipeline plan with Unocal.
- This meeting sparked protests from human rights groups due to the Taliban's oppressive treatment of women.
Najibullah's Resilience
- Despite facing a broken nation surrounded by eager warlords, President Najibullah was surprisingly resilient.
- He effectively utilized resources left by the Soviets.
USSR Economic Crisis
- The USSR faced economic crisis in 1989, marked by high inflation and shortages.
- The US, under President Bush, decided against substantial aid, impacting the USSR and its aid to Afghanistan.