Kazakhstan Had the Capacity to Resolve Unrest Without CSTO, Says Blinken

The United States believes that the authorities of Kazakhstan are capable of resolving the unrest on their own, without the involvement of the CSTO (Collective Security Treaty Organization). This was stated by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken at a press conference.

"Regarding the CSTO, we have questions related to Kazakhstan's request and why such a request was made. We are trying to get more information on this matter. I believe that the authorities and government of Kazakhstan undoubtedly have the capacity to address the situation, protect the rights of protesters, and at the same time maintain order and law. Therefore, it is unclear why they felt the need for external support," Blinken said.

The U.S. Secretary of State also called on CSTO peacekeepers and Kazakhstan's security forces to respect the rights of the protesters. He expressed the opinion that the ongoing unrest in Kazakhstan is rooted in political and economic reasons.