The Taliban takeover of Afghanistan has created a power vacuum with security implications for the wider region that has perhaps been underestimated. While the withdrawal of the United States and its Western allies after a 20-year presence might have generated more than some cheers in certain circles, there are security concerns for powers such as Russia in an area very close to its borders. The absence of Washington from Afghanistan means, among other things, the uncontrolled smuggling of narcotics and arms, which will inevitably result in greater instability in Central Asia.
