Russia officially recognises Taliban government in Afghanistan

Russia has officially recognised the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, marking a significant shift in Moscow’s policy toward the Taliban-led government. The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed the decision to TASS, stating simply, “The Foreign Ministry confirms.”

The move follows a series of developments indicating growing diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Kabul. On July 1, Afghanistan’s newly appointed ambassador to Russia, Gul Hassan, arrived in Moscow. Just two days later, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko received copies of his credentials, formalising his status as Afghanistan’s top envoy.

In a symbolic gesture of normalisation, the flag of the Islamic Emirate—introduced by the Taliban—was raised over the Afghan Embassy in Moscow for the first time since the group seized power in August 2021.

The recognition comes after Russia’s Supreme Court ruled on April 17 to suspend the ban on the Taliban’s activities in the country. The decision followed an administrative request by the Prosecutor General’s Office and effectively reversed the previous designation of the Taliban as a terrorist organisation within Russia.

The Russian Foreign Ministry has framed the move as a pragmatic step aimed at fostering cooperation. “Lifting the terrorist designation of the Taliban paves the way for establishing full-fledged partnership with Kabul in the interests of both the Russian and Afghan peoples,” the ministry stated.

By Vugar Khalilov