Russia Turns to Taliban-Controlled Afghanistan for Coca-Cola, Spices and Pilaf Cauldrons

Russia has established imports from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, including soft drinks and energy drinks, such as Coca-Cola, which exited Russia after the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russian Ambassador to Afghanistan Dmitry Zhirnov stated in an interview with RIA Novosti.

According to The Moscow Times, Russian online marketplaces are already offering original Coca-Cola products imported from Afghanistan.

“For example, a set of nine 300ml cans is being sold for nearly 700 rubles,” the news outlet wrote.

According to RIA Novosti, the Coca-Cola Company announced in March 2022 that it was suspending operations in Russia due to the invasion of Ukraine. By June, it confirmed that it would cease the sale and production of its internationally recognized brands, Coca-Cola, Sprite, and Fanta, within the country.

“Russia is buying Afghan spices, soft drinks, energy drinks, and medicinal herbs—lavender, thyme, and licorice. And, of course, cauldrons for pilaf,” Zhirnov stated.

However, according to him, trade is not limited to agricultural products. Afghanistan also supplies Russia with chromite ores, concentrates, minerals, rubies, and emeralds.

“Shipments of pomegranates from southern Afghanistan have begun, they’re the size of two fists. Russia is also becoming familiar with Afghan saffron, often called the 'red gold' of the East,” Zhirnov shared.

According to an investigation published on January 8, Russian military intelligence allegedly paid Taliban fighters and other militant groups in Afghanistan to carry out attacks targeting US and coalition forces.