Russia Criticizes Western Blockade on Afghan Assets Amidst Humanitarian Crisis

The spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry condemned the Western blockade of Afghan bank assets as illegal, warning that the ultimatums from the United States and its allies are harming vulnerable populations rather than impacting governance, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis…

 

The Russian Foreign Ministry has reiterated its strong stance against U.S. economic policies and those of Western countries regarding Afghanistan. During a press briefing, Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson, highlighted that the imposed sanctions and freezing of Afghan bank assets have had no real influence on the governance structures in Kabul. Instead, they are seriously threatening the livelihoods and survival of civilians and vulnerable groups in the country.

Citing monitoring reports, this senior diplomat revealed alarming details about the healthcare and living conditions in Afghanistan. According to her, the infant mortality rate in the country has now reached nearly double the global average, creating a humanitarian crisis that is worsening significantly due to a tangible decrease in international financial aid for humanitarian programs.

Washington’s Ultimatum Pressures and Paralyzing Kabul’s Resources

Moscow believes that the White House and its European allies, through heavy sanctions and coercive measures, are attempting to impose their political patterns and structures on the landscape of Afghanistan. The Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson described this Western action as a form of structural and inhumane pressure, with the greatest damage affecting women, children, and impoverished families nationwide.

Another focal point of Moscow’s criticism was centered on the seizure of currency reserves and Afghan banking assets. Zakharova labeled this financial blockade as illegal, emphasizing that the appropriation of Afghanistan’s national assets has severely incapacitated the established government in Kabul, limiting its ability to utilize internal financial instruments and effectively manage economic and natural crises.

Warning of Complete Collapse of Aid Efforts in Affected Areas

Russian officials insist that the continued current approach by the international community and the insistence on the economic isolation of Kabul will lead to a deadlock in international aid mechanisms. The weakening of banking channels not only hinders the influx of investment and stability in Afghanistan’s domestic market but also complicates the ability of aid organizations to transfer financial resources needed to save millions of lives, leading to logistical challenges and a suspension of activities.