Russia has formally recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan, becoming the first country to officially accept the administration since the group retook power in August 2021 following the U.S. withdrawal.
According to British media sources, the Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed that it has accepted the credentials of the new Afghan ambassador to Moscow, signaling formal diplomatic relations.
“This recognition will help foster cooperation across various sectors, including political dialogue, trade, and regional security,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
Following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, Russia slowly began re-establishing relations with Kabul. In April this year, Moscow removed the Taliban from its official list of terrorist organizations—reversing a classification made in 2003.
President Vladimir Putin has previously described the Taliban as a “partner” in the fight against terrorism. Analysts believe Moscow views collaboration with the Taliban as necessary to counter extremist threats in Afghanistan and across Central and South Asia.