Afghanistan marks 37th anniversary of Soviet Red Army withdrawal

Sunday, February 15, marks the 37th anniversary of the withdrawal of Soviet Red Army forces from Afghanistan.

The Taliban described the day in a statement as one of pride and thanksgiving in the country's history, attributing the former Soviet forces' defeat to the "jihad, struggle, sacrifices, migration, and sufferings" endured by Afghan citizens.

The Taliban stated: "From repeated aggressions over the past 100 years and the victory of jihad against them, aggressors should take lessons and not step against our people's freedom and liberty again." They urged the public to remain vigilant against "any plot and scheme" in the future and to safeguard their "faith, belief, and independence."

Exactly 37 years ago, the last Soviet Red Army troops left Afghanistan after a 10-year presence, exiting via the Hairatan border bridge into Uzbekistan.

The 40th Armored Division of the former Soviet Red Army invaded on January 6, 1979 (6 Jadi 1358 in the solar calendar), following the rise of the Babrak Karmal government. Initial stages of the occupation involved clashes with various mujahideen groups.

The Soviet forces remained in Afghanistan for 10 years, a period marked by bloody conflicts and heavy casualties, particularly among civilians.

Following their withdrawal, the country entered a civil war.

The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs under the Taliban administration has declared the upcoming Sunday a public holiday for this occasion.