This Article is From Jun 16, 2014

Despite Bergdahl Swap, Peace Talks Still in Limbo

Despite Bergdahl Swap, Peace Talks Still in Limbo

File Photo: US Army Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl in Taliban Captivity.

Washington: Even with the release of five Taliban detainees in exchange for Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl (boh BURG'-dahl), there are few indications the militant group will head into peace talks with the Afghan government anytime soon.

The peace process is virtually on hold until Afghan President Hamid Karzai (HAH'-mihd KAHR'-zeye) has a clear successor.

Election results from Saturday won't be known until July. It will be months before the winner will be able to set up his administration and lay the groundwork for possible talks.

It's also unclear what role the Obama administration can or is willing to play to coax the Taliban to the negotiating table.

U.S. and former and current Afghan officials say the transfer is evidence that the two sides can come together and deal peacefully.

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