In a groundbreaking diplomatic shift, Russia has become the first country in the world to formally recognize the Taliban-led government of Afghanistan. The move not only removes the Taliban from Russia’s list of banned organizations but signals a bold new direction in international relations. As other nations watch closely, the Kremlin’s recognition may mark the beginning of a new geopolitical reality in Central Asia.
Russia Officially Recognizes Taliban Government, Becomes First Nation to Take Diplomatic Leap
In a major foreign policy development, Russia has officially recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan becoming the first country in the world to do so since the Islamist group seized control of the country in August 2021.
The announcement was made after the Russian Foreign Ministry accepted the credentials of Gul Hassan Hassan, the newly appointed Afghan Ambassador to Moscow. The ministry confirmed that the decision was accompanied by the formal removal of the Taliban from Russia’s list of illegal and banned organizations.
According to a statement from the ministry, the official recognition is expected to pave the way for more productive and structured bilateral cooperation between Russia and Afghanistan.
The Afghan Foreign Ministry welcomed the move, hailing it as a historic moment in diplomatic relations. Taliban-appointed Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaki praised Russia, stating that Moscow had become a “good example for other countries” in how to engage with the current government in Kabul.
Russia’s decision comes nearly four years after the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan following the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. and NATO troops. Since then, the Taliban has ruled the country under a strict interpretation of Islamic law, while actively courting diplomatic legitimacy from the international community.
While no country had previously recognized the Taliban regime as the official government of Afghanistan, several have maintained behind-the-scenes or semi-formal diplomatic relations. China, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Pakistan, and Qatar have all held high-level talks and allowed the Taliban to operate embassies or consulates.
However, Russia’s move is the first full diplomatic endorsement and could signal a turning point for Taliban-led Afghanistan’s quest for global legitimacy.
It also raises questions about the future direction of international policy toward Afghanistan, particularly as Western powers remain divided on whether to engage or isolate the regime amid ongoing human rights concerns and the suppression of women’s freedoms.
As Moscow deepens its ties with the Taliban, the rest of the world will be watching closely to see if others follow suit—or hold the line.
