During a recent briefing, Andrey Serdyukov, the Chief of Joint Staff of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), highlighted that despite some positive developments in Afghanistan, the country continues to pose significant threats to regional and global security.
These threats include terrorism, the spread of radical ideologies, and drug trafficking. Serdyukov’s remarks underscore the ongoing challenges faced by CSTO member states, particularly in Central Asia, as they grapple with the spillover effects of instability in Afghanistan.
Russia, a key member of the CSTO, has repeatedly expressed concerns over the threats emanating from Afghanistan, particularly those linked to the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) and the illicit drug trade.
Despite these challenges, Russia has adopted a pragmatic approach toward the Taliban, which regained control of Afghanistan in August 2021. Unlike many Western nations, Russia did not close its embassy in Kabul and has maintained diplomatic ties with the Taliban-led government. Moscow has hosted Taliban delegations on multiple occasions and has even received diplomats appointed by the Taliban administration.
While Russia officially designates the Taliban as a terrorist organization, it has signaled a willingness to reconsider this classification as part of its broader engagement strategy.
In a move aimed at addressing Afghanistan’s economic difficulties, Russia has signed agreements to export fuel, wheat, and gas to the country. These deals are seen as an effort to stabilize the region and mitigate the humanitarian crisis, while also fostering cooperation with the Taliban.
However, Moscow remains cautious about the Taliban’s ability to contain the threat posed by ISKP. This skepticism reflects the complex dynamics of Russia’s relationship with the Taliban.
In a significant development for Afghanistan-Russia relations, Zamir Kabulov, Special Envoy of the Russian President, held high-level talks with Taliban officials in Kabul, signaling a further warming of ties between the two nations.
U.S. sources report that, amid potential strikes on Iran, the Pentagon has once again taken control of the Bagram airbase in Afghanistan.
Iran and Afghanistan are working to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties as the Taliban seeks greater engagement with the United States. The discussions focus on trade, security, and regional stability, highlighting shifting alliances in the region amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The U.S. has dropped a $10 million reward for Taliban figure Sirajuddin Haqqani.
UNICEF on Saturday urged the interim Taliban-led administration in Afghanistan to lift the ban on girls' secondary education as the new school year begins without girls for a third consecutive year.
Britain's King Charles has called on the world to work toward lasting peace and preventing future wars during a speech marking the end of four days of events celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
Before becoming Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Prevost shared rare insights on faith, unity, and modern challenges in a few candid interviews.
A humanitarian ship carrying 20,000 tons of Ukrainian wheat docked in Samsun, Türkiye, on Thursday, marking a major World Food Program initiative to supply crisis-hit regions, including Syria.
North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un supervised a missile test on Thursday, emphasizing the nation's nuclear combat readiness, according to state media KCNA.
EU foreign ministers will visit Lviv, Ukraine, on May 9 to discuss defense support and endorse plans for a tribunal on war crimes and aggression.
India has fired a series of missiles into Pakistani-controlled territory, in what it has described as “Operation Sindoor”
For the first time in history, an American has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church, as Cardinal Robert Prevost is named pope.
Discover every major VE Day 80 event in Britain, 5‑8 May 2025—from London’s parade and fly‑past to street parties, concerts and museum exhibitions.
Chinese e-commerce platform Temu has announced it will no longer sell goods directly from China to U.S. customers, shifting instead to U.S.-based sellers amid the closure of a long-criticized customs loophole.
Cardinals from 70 nations have gathered in Vatican City to begin the historic conclave to elect the next pope, following the death of Pope Francis 17 days ago. This conclave is the most geographically diverse in Church history, showcasing Francis’ legacy of inclusivity.
Armenia has officially approved joining the Ashgabat Agreement, aiming to enhance its regional transit role and secure broader access to international markets through a key transport and transit corridor spanning Central and South Asia.
Turkmenistan will host the next session of the High-Level Working Group on the Caspian Sea, following constructive discussions in Moscow among the five littoral states on maritime cooperation and legal frameworks.
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, in a message to participants of the 28th Eurasian Economic Summit, praised the strong Azerbaijani–Turkish partnership and reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to promoting peace, tolerance, and interfaith harmony.
Kazakhstan’s Senate has approved a key agreement with the UAE to develop a 1 GW wind power station in the Zhambyl region, with plans to enhance renewable energy production and storage capacity. The project will create thousands of jobs and attract significant investments.
The US Embassy in Georgia has cautioned American citizens about potential security threats at several major shopping malls in Tbilisi, though Georgian officials have refuted the claims as unfounded.
Britain's King Charles has called on the world to work toward lasting peace and preventing future wars during a speech marking the end of four days of events celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
Before becoming Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Prevost shared rare insights on faith, unity, and modern challenges in a few candid interviews.
A humanitarian ship carrying 20,000 tons of Ukrainian wheat docked in Samsun, Türkiye, on Thursday, marking a major World Food Program initiative to supply crisis-hit regions, including Syria.
North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un supervised a missile test on Thursday, emphasizing the nation's nuclear combat readiness, according to state media KCNA.
EU foreign ministers will visit Lviv, Ukraine, on May 9 to discuss defense support and endorse plans for a tribunal on war crimes and aggression.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment