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Russia’s latest military political assessment of Taliban Government warns that Afghanistan under the Taliban is home to up to 23,000 militants. More than half of them are foreigners linked to international terrorist groups. The largest groups are the Pakistani Taliban, with up to 7,000 fighters, and the local branch of Islamic State, with about 3,000 members.
The TTP mainly operates in southeastern and eastern Afghanistan. It focuses on attacks inside Pakistan, which has complicated relations between the two countries. Al-Qaeda also uses Afghanistan to run training camps and expand its influence. Russian reports show Al-Qaeda facilities in provinces including Ghazni, Laghman, Kunar, Nangarhar, Nuristan, Parwan, and Uruzgan.
These findings suggest that the Taliban has failed to control its own territory. Afghanistan has become a base where foreign fighters operate freely. The presence of thousands of militants shows that the country is a threat to regional security.
Moscow Recognizes Taliban but Warns of Instability
Russia was the first country to maintain formal engagement with the Taliban government after it seized power in August 2021. Despite this engagement, Moscow’s report stresses that the Afghan military and political situation remains unstable. Terrorist groups operate openly, and the Taliban cannot ensure safety or order.
ISIS and Al-Qaeda continue to train and organize networks. The TTP carries out cross-border attacks. These activities highlight that the Taliban’s control is weak. Foreign fighters using Afghanistan as a base further increase the risk for neighbouring countries.
Russia’s assessment paints a grim picture of Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. While Moscow has engaged the Taliban diplomatically, the regime has failed to stop terrorism, control foreign militants, or stabilize the country. Afghanistan under the Taliban remains unsafe and a growing concern for the region.
Read more:Russia Warns of Growing Terrorist Influence Inside Afghanistan
