Russian Lawmaker Opposes Plan to Recruit Afghan Workers

A Russian lawmaker has criticized plans to recruit Afghan workers, exposing divisions in Moscow’s approach toward Afghanistan and migrant labor shortages.

A Russian lawmaker has publicly opposed the idea of recruiting workers from Afghanistan, calling it a “big mistake” and claiming Afghan migrants could pose a threat to Russia’s national security.

Mikhail Matveyev, deputy chairman of the Russian State Duma’s Committee on Regional Policy, made the remarks in comments to Russian outlet Gazeta, where he argued against the possible entry of Afghan laborers into Russia. He also made sweeping and controversial claims about Afghan migrants, including allegations about crime and security risks.

His comments come after Zamir Kabulov, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s special envoy for Afghanistan, said Moscow had been discussing the possible recruitment of Afghan workers with the Taliban to help ease Russia’s labor shortage.

The issue has become more sensitive as Russia faces a growing shortage of workers in sectors such as construction, agriculture, transport and services, driven by demographic decline, war-related mobilization and tighter migration controls affecting traditional labor sources from Central Asia.

Matveyev’s criticism highlights internal disagreement in Russia over how far the country should go in deepening practical ties with the Taliban, especially on migration and labor issues, even as official channels between Moscow and Kabul continue to expand.

Russia has steadily moved closer to the Taliban since the group returned to power in August 2021, despite widespread international criticism over human rights abuses and restrictions on women and girls. In July 2025, Russia became the first country to formally recognize the Taliban government, signaling a major diplomatic shift.

That recognition came even as Afghanistan remained deeply isolated internationally. The Taliban government continues to face criticism over bans on girls’ education, severe restrictions on women’s work and movement, economic collapse, and growing humanitarian pressure. The United States this month also renewed pressure on the Taliban over detentions and governance concerns.

At the same time, Afghanistan’s regional situation remains fragile. Border fighting with Pakistan has intensified in recent weeks, adding to insecurity and complicating any discussion about labor mobility or broader economic cooperation with neighboring states and partners such as Russia.

The post Russian Lawmaker Opposes Plan to Recruit Afghan Workers appeared first on Khaama Press.