Lavrov: Russia Does not want US Army in Central Asia

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated today, Tuesday, that "Russia does not want US military presence in Central Asia, especially following their exit from Afghanistan."

During a news conference with his Hungarian colleague, he warned that "The US military buildup in Central Asian nations bordering Afghanistan would turn these countries into targets," adding, "I will explain it simply, we have a common security area, and this region has its own duties." I'm referring to the Collective Security Treaty Organization, which requires all Allies to agree on matters concerning the deployment of foreign armed forces on their land.

The major reason for Russia's aversion to seeing American forces in the region, according to Lavrov, is the US military's desire to put part of its infrastructure, weapons, and personnel on the territory of nations bordering Afghanistan in order to conduct future strikes on Afghan soil.

Lavrov detailed Russia's willingness to cooperate with the UN Security Council on Afghanistan, as well as engage in meetings with the UN Security Council's five permanent members on the situation.

He also stated that "Russia has talked with the United States, China, and Pakistan on the situation in Afghanistan," and that "the members of the enlarged Troika on Afghanistan are willing to continue working in this format."

It is worth mentioning that the Russian Foreign Ministry announced on August 17 that "Russia is satisfied with the peaceful transition of power in Afghanistan."