Russia Says Kant Airbase Adequate to Counter Threats from Afghanistan
Sergey Vakonov, Russia’s ambassador to Kyrgyzstan, has stated that Russia’s Kant airbase, with its current facilities and capacity, is sufficient to counter security threats from the south, especially those related to Afghanistan. At present, there is no need to expand this base.
According to the news website 24.kg on Friday, 24th Dey, Vakonov emphasized that the current operational parameters of this base are adequate to repel potential threats against member countries of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) from the south. The CSTO is a Russia-led security alliance that includes several Central Asian countries.
The Russian ambassador added that Russian forces stationed in Kyrgyzstan are effectively performing their duties and, in coordination with Kyrgyz security agencies, cooperate in combating extremism, terrorism, drug trafficking, and organized crime.
He also mentioned that Russian forces coordinate with other CSTO members in joint operations and participated in the “Rubezh-2025” exercises held in the Issyk-Kul region.
Vakonov stressed that Moscow will continue to equip this base with the most advanced weapons and modern military equipment to maintain its readiness.
According to the Russian ambassador, the Kant and Karakol airbases were established during a difficult period and at the request of Kyrgyz leadership, following international terrorist attacks organized from Afghan territory. Despite the Taliban’s control over Afghanistan, regional countries remain concerned about extremist group activity and cross-border threats. Ensuring regional security remains a key focus of military cooperation in Central Asia.
