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KABUL – Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has called for Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government to be fully integrated into regional political and economic affairs, while issuing a firm warning against any renewed Western military presence in the country or its neighbours.
Addressing a regional meeting on Afghanistan in Moscow, Mr Lavrov said ensuring stability “presupposes Kabul’s involvement in political processes”.
He also praised the Taliban’s efforts against terrorist groups.
The comments mark a significant escalation of Russia’s diplomatic efforts to shape Afghanistan’s future, following its official recognition of the Taliban government in July – a move no other nation has made.
“We proceed from the premise that ensuring the security and well-being of our region presupposes Kabul’s involvement in political processes, in the activities of multilateral associations, and in the implementation of joint economic projects,” Mr Lavrov told delegates at the talks, known as the “Moscow format”.
He confirmed that Russia had lifted all restrictions on interstate cooperation with Kabul following its recognition of the interim administration.
In a direct challenge to the West, Mr Lavrov stated Russia’s opposition to “the deployment of third-party military infrastructure in Afghanistan and neighbouring states under any pretext.”
“The military presence of extra-regional players could lead to destabilization and new conflicts,” he said, without naming specific countries.
He went on to call on Western nations to “correct its confrontational course” and to take responsibility for the post-conflict reconstruction of Afghanistan, compensating for damage inflicted “over decades.”
The Russian minister also appealed for unconditional humanitarian aid for Afghanistan, where he said the situation remains “difficult.”
He stated that 22 million people – more than half the population – require assistance, with 21 million lacking access to clean water and basic healthcare. “Russia, for its part, will continue to provide and increase humanitarian assistance to the Islamic Emirate,” he added.
The speech comes amid rising regional tensions over the future of Afghanistan. Last month, China, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan jointly stated their opposition to any reestablishment of foreign military bases in the country.
That statement was widely seen as a response to US President Donald Trump’s public demand for the Taliban to return control of the strategic Bagram Air Base to the Pentagon – a demand which Kabul rejected.
The Taliban returned to power in August 2021 following the withdrawal of US and allied forces after a twenty-year conflict.
