Afghanistan's rival leaders were each sworn in as president in separate ceremonies on Monday, throwing plans for negotiations with the
Taliban into chaos and creating a dilemma for the
United States as it figures out how to move its peace deal with the Taliban forward.
The U.S.-Taliban deal signed just over a week ago was touted as Washington's effort to end 18 years of war in
Afghanistan and was seen by many Afghans as the best opportunity yet for bringing an end to relentless wars.
The two ceremonies were held at the same time, Ghani’s in the presidential palace and Abdullah’s next door in the Sapedar Palace, both packed with each rival’s supporters.