Alexander Bortnikov, the head of Federal Security Service (FSB), expressed concerns about Afghanistan’s situation during a Commonwealth of Independent States meeting.

He highlighted the significant threat posed by the expansion and influence of terrorist groups in Afghanistan and Pakistan to regional security.

Bortnikov stated that the Taliban could establish order in Afghanistan if external actors refrain from intervening in Kabul.

Additionally, he noted ongoing Anglo-Saxon efforts to influence Afghanistan, aiming to establish a foothold in Central Asia for regional influence.

Bortnikov also described the collaborative efforts between Russia and the Taliban to combat international terrorism as a “positive development”.

This statement follows remarks by Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s special envoy for Afghanistan, who recently declared that the Taliban are no longer considered an enemy by Russia. Since the Taliban’s rise to power, Russian officials have actively sought to maintain relations with the group.