Russia recognizes Taliban government in Afghanistan
(MENAFN) Russia has officially recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan, marking a major geopolitical shift and making it the first major global power to formally engage with the Islamic Emirate since the Taliban seized control in 2021.
On July 1, Taliban envoy Gul Hassan handed over his diplomatic credentials to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko. Just two days later, Moscow confirmed its full recognition of the Taliban regime—symbolically, politically, and diplomatically.
This move came after Russia’s April decision to remove the Taliban from its list of banned terrorist organizations, where it had been listed for over two decades. The Russian Foreign Ministry described the step as a pragmatic approach aimed at enhancing security cooperation, economic dialogue, and regional stability.
The Taliban responded positively, seeing Russia’s move as a potential trigger for broader international recognition. While Western nations have maintained unofficial and indirect communication with the group, none had taken the step of formal recognition—until now.
Russia’s involvement in Afghanistan is not new. It kept its embassy open in Kabul even as Western countries evacuated during the Taliban takeover in 2021. Its history in the region also stretches back to its military withdrawal in 1989 after a long and bloody war against mujahideen fighters—many of whom later helped form the modern Taliban. In this context, Russia’s latest move appears to be a continuation of long-standing regional interests rather than a new direction.
For Moscow, the recognition is not just symbolic—it serves strategic interests. With formal ties established, Russia gains leverage to push the Taliban for cooperation on key issues like preventing extremist spillover into Central Asia and ensuring regional security.
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