In a landmark foreign policy move, Russia has officially recognised the Taliban's leadership in Afghanistan, becoming the first country to do so since the group's takeover in August 2021. The decision comes after Moscow removed the Taliban from its list of banned terrorist organisations earlier this year.
The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed on Thursday that it had formally received credentials from the new Afghan Ambassador, Gul Hassan Hassan, marking a decisive shift in bilateral relations and a significant step toward enhanced diplomatic engagement.
“This will contribute to the development of productive bilateral cooperation,” the Russian foreign ministry said, as reported by AP.
The Afghan Foreign Ministry welcomed Russia's recognition, calling it a “historic step.” Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi expressed optimism that this move would encourage other nations to follow suit, breaking the prolonged diplomatic isolation of the Taliban regime.
“This is a good example for other countries,” Muttaqi stated, underscoring the importance of international legitimacy for Afghanistan’s new leadership.
President Vladimir Putin officially authorised the recognition following a recommendation from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, according to Russian Ambassador to Afghanistan Dmitry Zhirnov, who announced the decision on state-run Channel One.
“This step shows Russia’s sincere striving for the development of full-fledged relations with Afghanistan,” Zhirnov added.
Russia had removed the Taliban from its banned list in April 2024, citing the necessity of engaging with the group to promote stability and regional security.
The Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021, following the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces. Since then, they have been seeking international recognition, while maintaining informal diplomatic ties with countries like China, Qatar, the UAE, and Iran.
However, most nations have stopped short of official recognition due to concerns over human rights, especially the treatment of women and girls. Under Taliban rule:
Women are banned from most forms of employment and public spaces, including parks, gyms, and bathhouses.
Girls are barred from education beyond sixth grade.
There are restrictions on media, civil liberties, and freedom of movement.
Despite pledges of moderate governance, the Taliban has enforced policies echoing their 1996–2001 regime, drawing sharp criticism from Western governments and rights organisations.
Russia’s recognition is expected to reshape geopolitical dynamics in the region, opening the door for economic cooperation, regional security discussions, and possibly further legitimisation of the Taliban on the international stage.
Analysts say this move could influence other regional powers and force a reevaluation of diplomatic strategies toward Afghanistan. However, the question remains whether this will bring meaningful change to Afghanistan’s internal governance or human rights landscape.
