Moscow aims to deepen cooperation in security, trade, and regional stability
By Reuters | July 4, 2025

Russia has officially recognised the Taliban government in Afghanistan, becoming the first country to do so since the group returned to power in August 2021. The recognition followed Moscow’s formal acceptance of the credentials of the new Afghan ambassador.

In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said it sees this step as a path to expanding productive ties with Kabul, especially in key areas such as counter-terrorism, economic development, and regional security. “We believe that official recognition of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan will provide momentum for constructive cooperation across various sectors,” the ministry said.

Russia highlighted opportunities for collaboration in energy, transportation, agriculture, and infrastructure, while also pledging to continue support in tackling drug trafficking and extremist threats.

The Taliban administration hailed the move as a “courageous” decision. Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi expressed gratitude, saying, “We value this bold step by Russia and hope it serves as a model for other countries.”

Although no other government has formally recognised the Taliban regime, several nations—including China, the UAE, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan—have sent ambassadors to Kabul, signaling growing engagement without official recognition.

This Russian move marks a significant diplomatic victory for the Taliban as they seek to overcome international isolation. It is expected to draw close scrutiny from the United States and its allies, especially given the continuing sanctions and frozen Afghan central bank assets imposed after the Taliban’s return to power.

An Evolving Relationship

Russia’s relationship with the Taliban has gradually evolved. Once blacklisted by Moscow as a terrorist group in 2003, the Taliban was removed from that designation earlier this year. President Vladimir Putin has referred to the Taliban as a partner in combating terrorism, and Afghanistan has increasingly looked to Russia for imports of oil, gas, and grain.

The security aspect is central to Moscow’s interest in Afghanistan. After a deadly ISIS-claimed attack in March 2024 that killed 149 people at a Moscow concert hall, Russian officials have grown more focused on the threat posed by extremist groups in the region. The Taliban, meanwhile, maintains it is actively fighting the Islamic State’s Afghan affiliate, ISIS-Khorasan.

Barriers to Broader Recognition

Despite this diplomatic milestone, Western governments remain firm in their stance that recognition is tied to human rights reforms—especially regarding the treatment of women and girls. Since retaking power, the Taliban has shut schools and universities for females and restricted women’s public life under their interpretation of Islamic law, drawing international condemnation.

Historical Baggage

Russia’s relationship with Afghanistan is complicated by its past. The Soviet Union invaded the country in 1979, leading to a protracted war against US-backed mujahideen fighters. The costly conflict ended with the Soviet withdrawal in 1989, after more than 15,000 Soviet soldiers were killed.

Today, however, Moscow is positioning itself as a pragmatic actor in Afghanistan’s future, taking calculated steps to build influence and stability in the region.