Afghan Taliban attack in Kabul throws peace talks into further doubt

NATO soldiers leave the site of attack in Kabul June 25, 2013. REUTERS/Mohammad Ismail

KABUL (Reuters) - Taliban militants attacked key buildings near Afghanistan's presidential palace and the U.S. CIA headquarters in Kabul, a brazen assault that could derail attempts for peace talks to end 12 years of war.

The Taliban, who have said they are willing to take part in talks with the United States and Afghan President Hamid Karzai's administration, said they launched the early morning assault, which triggered a 90-minute firefight.