UNSC passes resolution on Afghanistan, Russia abstains

The United Nations Security Council on Monday passed a resolution on Afghanistan calling on the Taliban (outlawed in Russia) to ensure unimpeded evacuation of Afghans and foreign nationals.

The resolution was supported by 13 Security Council members, while Russia and China abstained.

The resolution also provides for the invigoration of humanitarian efforts.

The resolution drafted by France and the United Kingdom. It also calls on the Taliban to adhere to its commitments at allow Afghans to leave the country via any border crossing, including via Kabul airport.

Apart from that, the resolution demands "that Afghan territory not be used to threaten or attack any country or to shelter or train terrorists, or to plan or to finance terrorist acts."

Russia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzia said that Russia abstained during the voting on the United Nations Security Council resolution on Afghanistan because its principle concerns were ignored in it.

According to the Russian diplomat, Russia suggested that the United Nations Security Council resolution on Afghanistan include a provision on negative effects of the mass evacuation of specialists and the freezing of financial assets on the situation in that country, but these initiatives were ignored.