Russia has taken a historic step by officially recognising the Taliban-appointed ambassador to Afghanistan. On Thursday, the Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed that it accepted the credentials of the new ambassador, making Russia the first country to formally recognise the Taliban-led government.
This decision could mark a turning point in Afghanistan’s efforts to end its diplomatic isolation.
Moscow Seeks Closer Ties with Kabul
In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said it saw strong potential for cooperation between the two countries. It pledged continued support in areas like security, counter-terrorism, and the fight against drug trafficking.
The statement added:
“We believe that the act of official recognition of the government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan will give impetus to the development of productive bilateral cooperation between our countries in various fields.”
Russia also expressed interest in expanding economic and trade relations, particularly in energy, transport, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Taliban Welcomes Russia’s Support
In response, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi thanked Russia and expressed hope that others would follow its lead. He said:
“We value this courageous step taken by Russia, and, God willing, it will serve as an example for others as well.”
A First Among Nations, but Not Alone in Engagement
No country has officially recognised the Taliban government since it took control of Afghanistan in August 2021, following the chaotic U.S. withdrawal.
However, some nations—including China, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and the UAE—have already sent ambassadors to Kabul, indicating informal diplomatic ties.
Russia’s move is a major win for the Taliban as they seek greater international legitimacy.
US Reaction and Sanctions Loom Large
The development is expected to attract attention in Washington. The United States has frozen billions in assets belonging to Afghanistan’s central bank and has placed sanctions on top Taliban leaders, further isolating the country’s financial system.
Growing Ties After a Troubled Past
Despite once banning the Taliban as a terrorist group in 2003, Russia has gradually shifted its position. This April, Moscow lifted the ban, clearing the path for official engagement.
President Vladimir Putin has even described the Taliban as an ally against terrorism. Since 2022, Afghanistan has been importing gas, wheat, and oil from Russia, showing expanding trade ties.
Terror Threats Prompt Cooperation
Russia believes cooperating with the Taliban is essential for tackling terrorism, especially after a deadly attack in March 2024, when 149 people were killed at a concert hall near Moscow.
The terror group Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K), based in Afghanistan, was blamed for the attack. U.S. intelligence also supported this claim. Meanwhile, the Taliban insists it is taking strong action to eliminate ISIS from Afghanistan.
Human Rights Still a Major Concern
Despite these steps, Western countries remain firm on not recognising the Taliban until it changes its stance on women’s rights.
The regime has banned girls from attending high schools and universities, and women face restrictions on movement without a male guardian. The Taliban claims it is upholding women’s rights based on its strict version of Islamic law.
A Complicated History Between Russia and Afghanistan
Russia’s involvement in Afghanistan dates back decades. In 1979, Soviet troops invaded Afghanistan to support a Communist regime. However, they soon became entangled in a bloody war against U.S.-backed mujahideen fighters.
After years of heavy losses—around 15,000 Soviet soldiers died—the Soviet Union, under Mikhail Gorbachev, withdrew its forces in 1989.