Taliban calls for 'restraint' in Ukraine-Russia war

The Taliban-controlled government of Afghanistan released a statement on Twitter on Friday urging restraint and expressing concern for civilians involved in the Russia-Ukraine war.

"The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is closely monitoring the situation in Ukraine and expresses concern about real possibility of civilian casualties," said Taliban government spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi.

"The Islamic Emirate calls for restraint by both parties. All sides need to desist from taking positions that could intensify violence.

"The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, in line with its foreign policy of neutrality, calls on both sides of the conflict to resolve the crisis through dialogue and peaceful means.

"The Islamic Emirate also calls on parties to the conflict to pay attention to safeguarding the lives of Afghan students and migrants in Ukraine."