Russia’s parliament has passed a new law allowing the suspension of bans on organizations previously designated as terrorist groups. This move paves the way for Moscow to normalize relations with the Afghan Taliban and potentially engage with Syria’s new leadership.
The law, approved on Tuesday, signals a shift in Russia’s diplomatic strategy toward groups it had previously categorized as terrorists. This step could mark a significant turning point in relations with the Taliban, which seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021 following the chaotic withdrawal of U.S.-led forces after a 20-year conflict. Although no country has formally recognized the Taliban government, Russia has been gradually building ties with the group. In July, President Vladimir Putin referred to the Taliban as an emerging ally in the fight against terrorism.
Simultaneously, Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Russia’s Muslim-majority Chechnya region, urged Moscow to reconsider its stance on Syria. Kadyrov called for removing Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from Russia’s list of banned terrorist organizations. HTS recently played a decisive role in the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Kadyrov’s comments suggest a growing willingness among Russian leadership to recognize new power structures in Syria. Such actions reflect Russia’s broader geopolitical strategy to establish influence and engage with emerging authorities in regions undergoing political transitions.
While the global community remains cautious about legitimizing the Taliban or HTS, Russia’s latest legislative changes underscore its pragmatic approach to foreign policy. By enabling the suspension of bans, Moscow can adapt its relationships to shifting realities on the ground.
The law’s passage indicates Russia’s intent to secure strategic alliances, particularly in regions like Afghanistan and Syria, which hold significance for Moscow’s counterterrorism and regional security goals.
