Russia appears to be winning the hearts and minds of Afghanistan better than the US

pulse

August 11, 2017 2:31 AM

Russians now walk the streets of Kabul without fear.

Russian President Vladimir Putin at a ceremony of receiving credentials at the Kremlin in Moscow, September 26, 2012.

The US and Russia have at least one thing in common: They've both fought protracted wars in Afghanistan without positive results.

While the US still seeks a military victory in Afghanistan, Russia pulled out nearly three decades ago and has since sought a non-military way to influence the war-torn country — and it appears to be paying off.

Moscow also recently gave the government 10,000 Kalashnikov rifles, pledged economic support for the country's housing sector, reopened a Russian cultural center, and is investing in about 150 other projects that could boost Afghanistan's economy and help Russia regain its moral authority.

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