The United Nations is seeking US$4.4 billion for Afghanistan at an international virtual event today in the largest humanitarian appeal launched for a single country even as concerns mount over Taliban rule.

Ahead of the drive, Britain pledged £286 million (US$374 million) for Afghanistan, where six out of every 10 Afghans need aid, much of it food, amid an economic crisis worsened by a financial aid cut-off following the Taliban takeover in August.

"Afghans need our help in...