Karzai warns of growing US-Russia rivalry in Afghanistan

KABUL- 12 October 2017: The former Afghan President Hamid Karzai warned of the growing rivalries between the United States and Russia in Afghanistan as he once again reiterated his opposition towards the new US strategy for Afghanistan and South Asia.

Speaking to reporters during a press conference in Kabul, Karzai said the United States and Russia were engaged in rivalries against each other during the Jihad times against the Soviet forces, Khaama Press reported on Thursday.

However, he said the rivalries still exist and continue to grow in the country with the Afghan people suffering from the continued war and violence.

He also slammed the Taliban group for its so-called holy war and said he has sent a letter to them to stop violence.

According to Karzai, the Taliban-led insurgency continues to harm and destroy the Afghan people only.

The United States announced its new policy for Afghanistan and South Asia late in August and vowed to continue suppressing the militant and terrorist groups, a move which was widely welcomed by the Afghan officials.

However, Karzai says the new US strategy of the United States does not accompany a message for peace and stability.