Russia Accuses West of Sabotage, Ready to Assist Taliban on Terrorism, Narcotics

Russia has taken a complex stance on Afghanistan following the Taliban's takeover, recognizing the group while criticizing the West, particularly the United States, for mismanagement and sabotage in the country's reconstruction and counterterrorism efforts. Sergey Shoigu, Russia's Security Council Secretary, highlighted the presence of over 20 terrorist groups, including the Khorasan branch of ISIS, and an increase in narcotics production, accusing Western nations of supporting destabilizing foreign fighters. Despite these accusations, Russia has expressed readiness to assist the Taliban government in combating terrorism and narcotics, aiming to help Afghanistan become a sovereign and stable state free from conflict and drug production. Meanwhile, India is signaling a significant shift in its policy by preparing for a possible visit from the Taliban Foreign Minister, reflecting a pragmatic approach to engage with the Taliban and counterbalance Pakistan's influence in Afghanistan. Pakistan, however, faces challenges as the Taliban have shown little interest in curbing attacks by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, complicating Islamabad's traditional ties with Kabul. Efforts to foster dialogue between Afghanistan and Pakistan have faced misrepresentations, with some accusing Pakistan of supporting anti-Taliban groups, though these claims have been contested as damaging to regional trust and cooperation.