The situation in Afghanistan is “difficult and alarming,” Russian President Vladimir Putin said while ruling out the involvement of Russian f0rces in the conflict. Russia, he said, is keeping a “close eye” on the situation. 

The Taliban took control of Afghanistan almost days ago, toppling the US-backed democratically elected government in Kabul. 

"You know how difficult and alarming the situation in Afghanistan currently is. We are keeping a close eye on this situation, actively cooperating with our allies in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO)," Putin was quoted as saying by the Tass agency.
 
He further added Moscow would not “interfere” in Afghanistan’s domestic affairs. 

"The former Soviet Union has its own experience in that country. We have learned the lesson," he said, ruling out any possibility of direct engagement of Russian troops in the conflict.  The Soviet Union intervened in support of the Afghan communist government in its conflict with anti-communist Muslim guerrillas during the Afghan War (1978–92) and Soviet forces remained in Afghanistan for about ten years until mid-February 1989, when they were forced to exit after a protracted war with the Mujahideen, or Afghan freedom fighters, which was backed with financial and miliary support by the US and its Western allies. Mujahideen are seen as the forerunner of the present-day Talbian. 

Although Russia hasn’t pulled out its staff from its embassy in Kabul, it remained concerned over how things would unfold in the coming days. The spillover effect of the conflict to Central Asia remains the key concern for Moscow which fears it could destabilize the countries that Russia considers its backyard. 

Significantly, Russia and China have been in touch with the Taliban leadership for the last few years, calling the Sunni Islamist group a reality in Afghanistan. Now that the group is in power, both Russia and China have stressed that they cut relations with transnational and nation terror groups.

Russia has also refused to allow the US plan to temporarily accommodate thousands of Afghans at risk in military bases in Central Asian countries. Meanwhile, Joe Biden, Tuesday confirmed that the United States will complete the US pullout from Afghanistan by 31 August. 

(SAM)