Islamist insurgents now holding all the cards in any negotiated surrender of the capital Kabul

Last-minute decision reflects dire state of country's security as Taliban seizes control of multiple cities in a few short days

In recorded message, Ashraf Ghani says consultations taking place to try to stop the fighting; insurgents camped some 30 miles from the capital

Staff instructed to bring documents and equipment 'which could be misused in propaganda efforts' to incinerators, other disposal sites

US president said a month ago that the now-unfolding situation would be 'highly unlikely'; 3,000 troops rushed back to evacuate embassy staff and Afghans who worked with Americans

Majority of the UK's military casualties during Afghan war occurred in Helmand province, now confirmed captured by insurgents

US and Britain deploying thousands of troops to evacuate their citizens from capital as insurgents conquer more and more cities

Nation appears close to coming under a complete resurrection of the Islamic emirate that ruled from 1996-2001 after overwhelming government forces

Thousands of Afghans flee as insurgents press lightning offensive that is encircling Kabul; capital of Helmand province falls; Kandahar and Herat also taken

With capture of Badakhshan, Baghlan and Farah capitals, Islamist militia now controls of two-thirds of nation as US and NATO finalize their withdrawal after decades of war