The Taliban have asked Russia to show restraint in its military invasion of Ukraine. In a statement, the Islamist group, which seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021 after years of chaotic warfare, called on Russia and Ukraine to protect the lives of Afghan citizens living in the country.
Russia launched its full-scale military invasion of Ukraine on Thursday, February 24th, attacking multiple fronts on land, air and sea.
On Friday, February 25th, the Taliban said that the group is closely watching the developments in Ukraine and expressed concern over the possibility of ‘civilian casualties’ in the region. In a statement released by the group’s foreign ministry, the Islamists said it would take a neutral position in the conflict.
“The Islamic Emirate calls for restraint by both parties. All sides need to desist from taking positions that could intensify violence.” said the statement put out by the group’s foreign ministry. The Taliban urged both sides to cease clashes and asked them to “resolve the crisis through dialogue and peaceful means.”
