Russian FM warns NATO’s return to Afghanistan risks sparking new instability

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has cautioned against renewed efforts to reintroduce NATO military infrastructure into Afghanistan, warning that such moves could become a dangerous source of future conflict.

“It is unacceptable to attempt — and such attempts are being made — to reintroduce NATO countries’ military infrastructure into Afghanistan under various pretexts,” Lavrov said during a press conference following his visit to Uzbekistan, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

“These efforts will create a new time bomb, and perhaps not even a slow one,” he added.

Lavrov noted that Western countries appear to be seeking a return to the “Afghan game,” a reference to their renewed interest in engaging in Afghanistan after withdrawing following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. “We have noted that the West is actively trying to return to the Afghan game, which it abandoned during the coalition’s chaotic withdrawal after the Taliban took power,” he said.

According to Lavrov, this renewed involvement includes a new initiative spearheaded through the United Nations. “The West, in particular, has initiated a new consultation format through the UN Secretariat, which is gathering in Doha — hence the name ‘Doha format,’” Lavrov explained.

He believes the West’s motivations are clear: “The West is uncomfortable with the fact that until the Doha format was established, the leading role in facilitating Afghanistan’s external relations was played mainly by the countries in the region.”

Despite Moscow’s concern over NATO’s possible return, Lavrov clarified that Russia is not opposed to Western participation in Afghan affairs, provided it is conducted in good faith. “We are not against it, as long as the participation of Western countries in these collective efforts is honest and doesn’t come with hidden agendas. That’s why we are also participating in the Doha process,” the Russian foreign minister concluded.