Russia begins evacuation of over 500 people from Afghanistan, holds military exercise in Tajikistan

While initiating the evacuation of its citizens from Afghanistan, Russia is holding a month-long military exercise with neighbouring Tajikistan.

Russia on Wednesday initiated the evacuation of more than 500 people from Afghanistan. The exercise will involve Russians and citizens of Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Ukraine. In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said the evacuation will be carried out using four military transport aircraft. The operation is being carried out as per the orders of President Vladimir Putin, the statement went on to say.