Russia has become the first country to formally recognise the Taliban government in Afghanistan, marking a significant shift in international diplomacy since the group’s return to power in 2021.
Moscow’s special envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, confirmed the decision to Russia’s state-run Ria Novosti news agency, stating that the Kremlin has officially “recognised” the Taliban administration.
The announcement followed the Russian foreign ministry’s acceptance of credentials from a new Afghan ambassador. In a statement, the ministry said the move would help “stimulate the development of constructive bilateral cooperation across various fields.”
Since the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021, no country had previously granted formal recognition, although several — including China, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, and Pakistan — have appointed ambassadors to Kabul, indicating growing engagement.
Russia’s recognition is a landmark achievement for the Taliban regime as it continues to seek legitimacy and reduce its diplomatic isolation. The move will likely draw close scrutiny from Western powers, especially the United States, which froze Afghan central bank assets and imposed sanctions on Taliban leaders, crippling the country’s access to international finance.
Earlier this year, Russia’s top court suspended the designation of the Taliban as a terrorist organisation, paving the way for official ties. The ruling was widely seen as a prelude to this week’s recognition.
Shared regional security concerns, particularly around combating the Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K), have brought Moscow and the Taliban closer in recent months.
Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi welcomed the Russian decision, calling it a “brave step” and a precedent for others. In a video message posted on X during a meeting with Russian Ambassador Dmitry Zhirnov, Muttaqi said, “Now that the process of recognition has begun, Russia is leading the way.”
