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Moscow claims NATO is actively attempting to re-enter Afghanistan
Russia has accused Western powers of re-engaging in Afghanistan’s affairs after retreating in August 2021, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warning of the risks posed by any potential return of NATO’s military presence in the region.
Speaking at a press conference during his visit to Uzbekistan, Lavrov said:
“We’ve observed that the West is actively attempting to re-enter the Afghan scene after stepping back when the Taliban (Islamic Emirate) assumed control.”
He added that while Moscow doesn’t oppose international involvement in Afghanistan, it must be transparent and constructive:
“We have no objections to Western countries participating in joint efforts, provided their actions are fair and come without hidden agendas. After all, we’re also engaged in the Doha process.”
Lavrov issued a strong caution against the reintroduction of NATO military infrastructure into Afghanistan, comparing it to planting a “time bomb.”
“It is unacceptable to see efforts — and there are such attempts — to return under various pretexts and reestablish NATO’s military presence. Such moves would be highly destabilizing and could set off a new crisis,” he warned.
The foreign minister emphasized that unlike some Western countries, Russia has maintained a consistent presence in Afghanistan, with its embassy in Kabul operating continuously since the IEA assumed power in August 2021.
Lavrov also highlighted Russia’s diplomatic efforts to integrate the IEA into multilateral discussions on Afghanistan’s future.
He praised the ongoing Moscow-format talks and the work of Afghanistan’s neighboring countries as well as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), describing their contributions as “very effective” and “constructive.”
In a related development earlier this month, Russia’s Supreme Court upheld a motion from the Prosecutor-General’s Office to suspend the ban on the Islamic Emirate within Russia, a move that took immediate effect and signals a shift in Moscow’s approach to the ruling government.
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Afghanistan committed to continued cooperation with UN on humanitarian and development projects: FM Muttaqi
According to the ministry, during the meeting Lemarquis shared his views on improving the delivery and management of humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan says Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has met with Bruno Lemarquis, Deputy Special Representative of UNAMA and Humanitarian Coordinator, for an introductory meeting.
According to the ministry, during the meeting Lemarquis shared his views on improving the delivery and management of humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan.
The Afghan Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of continuing humanitarian aid while also stressing the need to implement development and infrastructure projects across the country. He reiterated that the Islamic Emirate will continue its necessary cooperation with the United Nations in this regard.
Lemarquis thanked the Foreign Minister for the meeting and pledged to make full efforts in carrying out his responsibilities. He also highlighted the importance of expanding engagement and cooperation in various sectors between the two sides.
A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan on Saturday afternoon, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The quake’s epicenter was reported in Jurm district of Badakhshan province, with a depth of 208.3 kilometers.
So far, there have been no immediate reports of casualties or damage following the tremor.
Shahabuddin Delawar, Head of the Commission for Contact with Afghan Personalities, says Afghanistan has achieved security, unified governance, brotherhood, and progress for the first time in 47 years under the administration of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA).
Speaking at a meeting in Kabul on Saturday, Delawar said Afghanistan had lacked a unified system over the past four decades, but added that with the return of the Islamic Emirate, the issue has now been resolved.
Referring to Ashura commemorations held on Friday, he said the occasion was observed peacefully across the country under full security.
Delawar also urged exiled Afghan politicians to return, saying the commission was established to serve Afghans and address the concerns of returning figures. He added that any legal disputes involving returnees would be handled exclusively through the commission.
He further said the Islamic Emirate has expanded treatment centers and intensified anti-narcotics efforts since regaining power, claiming this has led to a significant decline in drug addiction.
Addressing the issue of international legitimacy, Delawar said he understood why the United States has not recognized the Islamic Emirate, arguing that Washington suffered a defeat in Afghanistan that it cannot easily overlook.
“They have suffered a major defeat that they cannot forget; if they recognize us, they will face questions from their own people,” Delawar said.
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