Russian envoy slams Trump’s decision on Afghanistan
US President Donald Trump’s decision to cancel a
meeting with the Taliban leaders and suspend peaceful consultations is a
negative signal, Russian Special Presidential Envoy for Afghanistan and
Director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s Second Asian Department Zamir
Kabulov told TASS on Monday.
"This is certainly a negative signal, but at
the same time we take note of remarks by [Secretary of State Mike] Pompeo and
representatives of the Taliban group [outlawed in Russia]. Despite the bellicose
tone of these remarks, both sides note readiness to continue dialogue,"
Kabulov said.
"Since emotions are running high now, combat
actions could escalate for some time, but we hope it won’t be long. We believe
that in the final end this [negotiating] process will continue and will be
successful."
The envoy also noted that Russia and the United
States would certainly hold contacts to discuss the situation in Afghanistan.
So far, this opportunity has not presented itself, he said.
