KABUL — Russia is appealing to the Afghan authorities and the public to provide information on over 200 Soviet troops — including 30 to 40 who may still be alive — listed as missing since Soviet forces ended their occupation of Afghanistan in 1989.

Russian ambassador Andrey Avetisyan said Monday the two countries are preparing an agreement that would regulate efforts to recover the servicemen.

He noted that it was difficult to access some locations where the soldiers' graves are believed to be located due security concerns stemming from the current war.

A Russian veterans group says 265 soldiers are still unaccounted for. About 20 are thought to have resettled in other countries after they deserted, while 30-40 may still be in Afghanistan or Pakistan.

About 15,000 Soviet troops died in the 10-year war.