That’s what United Nations chief Antonio Guterres told the Security Council yesterday, with the country at risk of economic collapse and widespread starvation as it pushes through a harsh winter. After years of drought, Afghanistan’s humanitarian situation has deteriorated since the Taliban took control last year. The UN says up to 97% of Afghans could be living in poverty by mid this year unless immediate action is taken. And with international aid drying up over concerns the Taliban will seize and use funds for dastardly deeds, Guterres implored countries to “suspend rules and conditions” like economic sanctions to get much-needed financial support flowing. That point has been the focus of renewed peace talks between the Taliban and Western officials this week. Despite the UN promising to work with countries to ensure funds are not misused, donors are still reluctant to free up funds due to lingering uncertainty.