Russian Researcher Claims Taliban Detained Him on “Espionage” Charges

MOSCOW (Kokcha.News) — Sviatoslav Kaverin, a Russian researcher detained by the Taliban for 52 days, has disclosed that he was accused of espionage and anti-government propaganda during his captivity.

Sviatoslav Kaverin stated, “As soon as I was transferred to Kabul, I was accused of spying for Russia and engaging in anti-government propaganda.”

The researcher’s ordeal highlights the Taliban’s increasing scrutiny of foreign nationals and their activities in Afghanistan. Sviatoslav Kaverin’s case also underscores the group’s willingness to detain individuals on charges of espionage, which could further complicate international relations and the safety of foreign researchers and journalists in the country.

He was arrested by Taliban authorities in Kunduz on July 19 on accusations of attempting to smuggle jewelry and later transferred to Kabul, according to his own Telegram posts at the time.

Sources told RIA Novosti that Kaverin has sent a voice message to his family confirming his release. One source said simply: “He is flying to Moscow.”

Neither Taliban officials nor Russian authorities have released details about the legal proceedings in his case or the circumstances of his release.