As the longest war of two decades has recently ended in Afghanistan, the world is experiencing a new spot of direct conflict triggered by Russian troops launching attacks on Ukraine.
Shortly after Putin spoke in a televised address on Russian state TV, the Russian troops launched an attack on Ukraine.
Moscow has purportedly launched the all-out invasion of Ukraine by land, air, and sea. Around 40 people have so far reportedly been killed in the offensives. According to Reuters, five Russian planes and a Russian helicopter were shot down in Luhansk region.
The question is, will the tension in Ukraine sideline Afghanistan from the agenda of the international community? Afghanistan has recently plunged into an economic crisis following the fall of the Western-backed government of Ashraf Ghani, and this has created a new wave of migration out of the country.
As Moscow began invading Ukraine, many world countries warned their citizens to leave Ukraine, but the Afghans living there were stranded due to recent severe restrictions imposed on Afghanistan.
Political analysts say that Afghanistan must remain impartial in conflicts between Russia and Western countries. “The Americans and Europeans are interested in re-engagement with the Afghan government, and have concerns about Russia, China and Iran,” said Javid Sangdel, a political analyst. The war in Ukraine is also expected to pave the way for a flow of Ukrainian refugees who may seek shelter in Europe. This will also affect the migration process of Afghan refugees who have been living in European camps for months.
“Neutrality should be one of the policies of the government, because the benefit of Afghanistan is to stay impartial. It should not take the US side nor Russia’s side and should monitor the competition between Russia and the US and NATO,” said Sayed Masoud, a university professor. The attack in Ukraine has sparked a strong reaction of world leaders, particularly western officials.
“Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring, and the United States and its Allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way,” US President Joe Biden said. “The world will hold Russia accountable.” “Under the present circumstances, I must change my appeal: President Putin, in the name of humanity, bring your troops back to Russia. This conflict must stop now,” UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres said.
The possible upcoming sanctions on Moscow, according to the analysts, will affect Afghanistan and its connection with the Central Asian nations.—Tolo
