Russian Ambassador to Afghanistan: "4,000 IS Terrorists Active in Afghanistan... Taliban Suppressing Activities"

"No Alternative to the Taliban," Actively Supporting
Russian Government Holds Off on Official Recognition of Taliban Regime

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The Russian ambassador to Afghanistan has defended the Taliban, stating that there are as many as 4,000 Islamic State (IS) militants operating within Afghanistan and that the Taliban is suppressing their activities. This statement is expected to spark controversy as the Russian government has yet to officially recognize the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan.

On the 25th (local time), according to Russia's Sputnik News Agency, Dmitry Zhurnov, the Russian ambassador to Afghanistan, appeared on the YouTube channel 'Solovyov Live,' operated by a well-known Russian journalist, and said, "Currently, there are about 4,000 IS terrorists active in Afghanistan," adding, "They are hiding from the Taliban."

Ambassador Zhurnov stated, "Since IS terrorists are currently in hiding, there is no direct conflict with the Taliban," and explained, "Because the number of IS members is small, a direct confrontation with the Taliban would have a clear outcome, so they remain hidden," thereby defending the Taliban. He further emphasized, "Afghanistan is already under control not only in the capital Kabul but throughout the entire country, and there is no alternative to the Taliban in Afghanistan."

Regarding the anti-Taliban resistance forces in Panjshir, Zhurnov said, "If the Taliban had tried to resolve the Panjshir issue using force, it would have taken only a day," and added, "The Taliban is applying gentle pressure to make the resistance leaders realize that armed struggle is futile," conveying the Taliban's perspective as is.

Earlier, a senior official from the Taliban's political wing reportedly visited the Russian embassy in Afghanistan and requested Ambassador Zhurnov to convey their political messages to the leaders and residents of Panjshir.

His remarks differ from the official stance of the Russian government, and further controversy is expected. Previously, the Russian government stated it would not officially recognize the Taliban government and evacuated about 500 embassy staff and Russian nationals from Afghanistan using military aircraft.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.