Russia to Provide Tajikistan with Free Weapons and Equipment, Shoigu Says

The situation in Central and South Asia requires special attention, and Russia has begun to take measures. According to RIA Novosti, this statement was made by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, who added that it also concerns the supply of weapons.

“Today, joint efforts to neutralize threats from the neighboring country of Afghanistan are coming to the forefront. The rapid withdrawal of foreign troops from there has led to a deterioration of the situation and a surge in terrorist activity,” the Russian Defense Minister specified during negotiations in Dushanbe.

Shoigu also announced that Moscow will supply the Tajik army with weapons and equipment free of charge. It is worth recalling that Shoigu had previously announced joint military exercises with Tajikistan on a bilateral basis, and later trilateral exercises with Uzbekistan.

“We continue the training of qualified Tajik military personnel. We are preparing them in both our military educational institutions and on the territory of the 201st Russian military base,” the minister added.

It should be noted that the situation in Afghanistan has worsened alongside the withdrawal of American troops, against which backdrop the radical movement “Taliban” has gained momentum. Members of the movement are making advances in various regions of the country, as well as along its borders.