Russia welcomed the end of the foreign military presence in Iraq as a development that strengthened the country’s sovereignty.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova announced that the withdrawal from Iraq of forces belonging to the U.S.-led international coalition was completed on September 30. Zakharova said the development marked the end of the coalition’s 12-year presence in Iraq.
Zakharova said the withdrawal implemented a decision adopted by the Iraqi Parliament in January 2020. She said the decision reflected the Iraqi people’s resolve to restore and strengthen state sovereignty after a prolonged foreign military presence.
Russia highlights the 2003 intervention
Zakharova said the foreign military presence in Iraq had effectively continued since 2003. She said this period began with the U.S. intervention in Iraq and argued that the intervention led to instability in the region continuing for decades.
The Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said the withdrawal showed that the Iraqi army and security institutions could act independently to develop their defense capabilities and ensure national security. Zakharova also said Iraqi security forces could independently counter threats from Daesh and similar groups.
Proposal for collective security in the Persian Gulf
The Russian Foreign Ministry said Iraqis could successfully overcome the internal and external challenges they might face. The ministry also revived Russia’s proposal for ensuring collective security in the Persian Gulf region.
Zakharova said the Gulf states, including Iraq, should act in close cooperation and coordination to preserve regional stability.
