MOSCOW, Russia – Russia has formally recognized the Taliban-led government of Afghanistan, becoming the first country to do so since the militant group seized power nearly three years ago.
In a statement issued Thursday, Russia’s Foreign Ministry confirmed it had accepted the credentials of a new Afghan ambassador appointed by the Taliban, calling it a step that will “give impetus to the development of productive bilateral cooperation.”
The announcement marks a diplomatic milestone for the Taliban regime, which has so far failed to gain formal recognition from any nation since returning to power in August 2021 following the chaotic withdrawal of U.S.-led forces.
“We value this courageous step taken by Russia, and, God willing, it will serve as an example for others as well,” said Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.
Strategic Motives
Moscow cited strong prospects for cooperation in trade, energy, infrastructure, and security.
The ministry underscored its intention to deepen ties with Kabul in areas such as counter-terrorism and the fight against narcotics, while hinting at broader geopolitical calculations.
Russia’s move is expected to be watched closely by the United States and Western allies, which have maintained sanctions against key Taliban leaders and frozen billions in Afghan central bank assets—citing ongoing concerns over human rights, especially the treatment of women and girls.
Though no Western country has recognised the Taliban, nations like China, Pakistan, the UAE, and Uzbekistan have posted ambassadors to Kabul—widely seen as tentative steps toward diplomatic engagement.
From Pariah to Partner
Thursday’s announcement is the clearest sign yet that the Taliban is finding sympathetic allies among countries seeking to expand influence in the region or counterbalance Western pressure.
Russia had classified the Taliban as a terrorist organisation in 2003, but reversed that designation in April 2024.
In recent years, President Vladimir Putin’s government has gradually warmed to the regime, casting the Taliban as a bulwark against Islamic State-Khorasan (ISIS-K), a group blamed for deadly attacks in both Afghanistan and Russia.
One such attack occurred in March 2024, when ISIS-K claimed responsibility for a massacre at a concert hall outside Moscow that left 149 people dead.
U.S. officials later said intelligence pointed to ISIS-K operatives in Afghanistan as the masterminds.
Putin has since referred to the Taliban as a partner in combating terrorism, despite Russia’s fraught history with Afghanistan—including a disastrous decade-long occupation by Soviet forces that ended in 1989.
However, international recognition of the Taliban remains controversial. Western governments and rights groups have condemned the group’s severe restrictions on women’s freedoms—including the closure of girls’ schools, bans on women attending university, and strict dress codes.
The Taliban insists it is governing in accordance with Islamic law and has accused foreign critics of disrespecting Afghan cultural values.
Despite the criticism, Moscow appears to be prioritising strategic and security interests over ideological concerns.
“The recognition of Afghanistan’s government will allow us to enhance cooperation in areas vital to regional stability,” the Russian ministry said.
Since 2022, Afghanistan has imported essential commodities from Russia, including oil, wheat, and gas.
With official diplomatic ties now established, both countries are expected to deepen economic and political engagement.
