Five years after taking control, the Taliban is marking "Victory Day" in Kabul, pointing to restored security and nationwide calm as major achievements. Yet behind the official celebrations, Afghanistan continues to grapple with deep international isolation, more than 2.6 million girls barred from secondary education, and nearly 22 million people in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. While local residents acknowledge that widespread conflict has ended, everyday survival remains an uphill battle. The challenge now is turning political control into lasting economic stability and a better quality of life for ordinary Afghans. #cgtn #afghanistan