While a U.S. delegation traveled to Kabul to secure the release of U.S. citizens in Taliban custody, Afghanistan‘s de facto government requested long-awaited recognition from its American counterparts. Ariana News reported last week that the Taliban delegates asked U.S. representatives to hand over the Afghan Embassy in Washington, D.C., and to reopen the U.S. Embassy in Kabul.

The delegates’ visit was successful, with American citizens George Glezmann being released on March 20 and Faye Hall being released on March 29. Despite these incredible exchanges, the Trump administration is unprepared to acquiesce to the Taliban’s request to restore diplomatic relations.