A statement was released by the Taliban “concerning [the] crisis in Ukraine” on Feb. 25, which called for both Russia and Ukraine to “resolve the crisis through peaceful means.”

The statement was released under the name of ‘Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.’ The Daily Mail notes that the statement was posted with an official seal, closely resembling those used by the United States. 

“The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is closely monitoring the situation in Ukraine and expresses concern about [the] real possibility of civilian casualties,’ the statement said.

‘The Islamic Emirate calls for restraint by both parties. All sides need to desist from taking positions that could intensify violence.”

The statement concludes by calling on both Ukraine and Russia to “pay attention to safeguarding the lives of Afghan students and migrants in Ukraine.” 

Though the numbers are unclear, hundreds have reportedly fled Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover, and thousands immigrated to Ukraine over the years during the war.      

The Taliban has reportedly not yet been recognized by any country after the U.S.’s botched withdrawal left both the country and billions of dollars in U.S. military equipment in their hands. The withdrawal resulted in the death of 13 young servicemen who were killed in a suicide bombing and Afghan special forces executed. 

The Taliban also began to kill women and children when international forces began to withdraw, according to a report. Since, the Taliban has reportedly hunted down and killed Afghans who assisted U.S. forces during the war.

The statement came as an ironic shock, with some commentators tweeting: