The Taliban has accused Donald Trump of spreading misinformation in a pointed retort over claims of Chinese influence at Bagram air base.

The former US base was abandoned by American forces when they withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021.

The Taliban – which is designated as a terrorist organisation by the US – seized control of the country shortly after. It took control of Bagram and the $7 billion worth of US-funded military equipment left behind.

Mr Trump said last week: “Bagram air base is one of the biggest air bases in the world. It has one of the biggest and most powerful runways. And we gave it up. And you know who is occupying it at the moment? China. Because Biden gave it up.”

In response, the Taliban said: “There is not a single armed Chinese individual here, nor do we have any such agreement with any country. Why is he spreading such misinformation at such a high level? The United States is a major country, and its leader should speak with great accuracy.”

During his election campaign, Mr Trump repeatedly claimed that China had taken control of Bagram.

He reiterated the allegation during his first cabinet meeting of the new administration last Wednesday and criticised Joe Biden, the former US president, for relinquishing the military hub. He added that he wanted to recover the weaponry left behind.