As the Taliban solidifies its control over Afghanistan, discussions around U.S. policy and its impact are intensifying. Analysts argue that the U.S. must reckon with its past actions in the region to better understand the current landscape. Former U.S. envoy Zalmay Khalilzad emphasizes that improving ties with the U.S. is crucial for reintegrating Afghanistan into the international community. However, lingering questions about the allocation of taxpayer dollars during the protracted conflict raise concerns about accountability. A series of opinions and analyses highlight the challenges facing U.S. leverage in Afghanistan, suggesting that the current policy reflects outdated strategies that fail to address the realities on the ground.