The Situation in the CSTO Responsibility Zone is Unstable and Poses Risks: Putin

The situation in the CSTO responsibility zone is not only unstable but also poses risks for the countries of the region, stated Russian President Vladimir Putin during the ongoing CSTO summit in Dushanbe.

“As already mentioned, the situation in the CSTO responsibility zone and on the external borders of member states is not only unstable but also carries new genuinely acute challenges and risks for the security of our countries,” he said.

He noted that the leaders participating in the CSTO emergency summit exchanged views on the dangers associated with the sharp changes in the situation in Afghanistan following the hasty withdrawal of U.S. and allied forces and the rise to power of the Taliban movement (the Taliban is recognized as a terrorist organization and banned in Russia).

“Everyone agreed with the conclusion that in the current situation, as never before, the closest coordination and unity among CSTO member states is required,” Putin said.

Putin is participating in the meeting via videoconference as he is in self-isolation.