For many observers, the negotiations register as a defeat — recognition that the Taliban has not only survived, but will be central to Afghanistan's future.

Afegãos temem que menor presença de soldados americanos leve a mais violência, enquanto outros esperam que a retirada dê ao país uma chance maior de paz.

Some Afghans fear that fewer U.S. troops will lead to more violence, while others hope the pullout will give the country a better shot at peace.