While that may be true (don't recall specifically), the Taliban were not in a position to be asking for anything, since they were essentially a group of mujahideen who won over other rival groups and took violent control of the country post the Afghan-Soviet conflict, and immediately instituted the most severe form of Wahhabism and Sharia law of that time period. A few steps away from ISIS.

Not arguing you, to be clear. I appreciate the clarification.

> Taliban were not in a position to be asking for anything

If they weren't, then the US military wouldn't still be in Afghanistan dealing with them nearly 20 years later.

Entrenchment, local support against invaders/foreigners (despite opposition to the Taliban), further radicalization and funding that occurs during a conflict by proxy parties, is why the US is still there - the Taliban were never in a position to be asking for anything.

EDIT: I'm not defending the US and any coalition troops staying there. I'm interpreting the current situation. Best thing we can do at this point (and 10 years ago) is to cut our losses and GTFO.