Oleg Syromolotov, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, said that more than 20 terrorist groups with 10,000 fighters operate in Afghanistan. Syromolotov added that the disastrous socio-economic situation of Afghanistan has attracted terrorists and facilitated radicalisation.
He stressed that Russia has been very closely monitoring the situation in Afghanistan.
Without naming any country or organisation, the Russian diplomat said that terrorists receive financial support from outside Afghanistan.
However, he accused the United States and its allies of having a hand in de-stabilising Afghanistan and the country’s border regions.
The Russian Deputy Foreign Minister added that the weapons and ammunition left by the NATO military forces in Afghanistan have been used by terrorist groups.
Syromolotov added that since Afghanistan is a potential source of terrorist activities, Russia will remain in contact with the Taliban.
The Russian diplomat emphasised that the Taliban should fulfill their commitments to forming an inclusive government, fighting terrorism, countering narcotics, and respecting human rights in Afghanistan.
