Russia has officially recognised the Taliban government in Afghanistan, becoming the first country to do so since the group regained control in 2021.
The announcement came after Moscow removed the Taliban from its list of banned organisations. Russia’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that it had received diplomatic credentials from the new Afghan ambassador, Gul Hassan Hassan. This formal step marks the beginning of official diplomatic ties between the two governments.
According to the ministry, this recognition is expected to build “productive bilateral cooperation” between the two countries. The Taliban’s Foreign Ministry welcomed the decision, calling it a historic moment. Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi described it as “a good example for other countries” to follow.
Muttaqi added that the recognition opened “a new phase of positive relations, mutual respect, and constructive engagement.” He praised Russia for taking the lead in starting the process of recognition, which the Taliban have long sought since taking power.
The Taliban returned to power in August 2021 after the withdrawal of US and NATO troops. Since then, the group has aimed to gain international recognition, even as it enforces strict religious rules at home. Although the Taliban held diplomatic talks with countries like China and the United Arab Emirates, no nation had granted them formal recognition until now.
Despite this new diplomatic step, the Taliban remain under criticism for their harsh domestic policies. These include major restrictions on women and girls. Women are banned from most jobs and public spaces such as parks, gyms, and bathhouses. Girls are not allowed to attend school beyond the sixth grade.
When the Taliban first took power in the late 1990s, their rule was known for its severe limitations on women’s rights. After their return in 2021, the group initially promised to govern more moderately. However, they quickly imposed similar strict rules, which led many countries to keep their distance.
In recent months, Russia has highlighted the need to work with the Taliban to help stabilise Afghanistan. The Kremlin lifted its ban on the Taliban in April 2024. In July that year, Russian President Vladimir Putin referred to the Taliban as “allies in the fight against terrorism.”
Russia’s ambassador to Afghanistan, Dmitry Zhirnov, stated that the decision to recognise the Taliban government was made following advice from Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Zhirnov said this move shows Russia’s “sincere striving for the development of full-fledged relations with Afghanistan.”
The decision is expected to have significant global impact. With Russia now setting the stage, other countries may soon follow in building formal ties with the Taliban administration.
Experts believe this shift could influence broader regional dynamics, especially in Central Asia. Afghanistan’s location and stability have long been important to neighbouring powers. As international attention returns to the region, Russia’s step may increase diplomatic pressure on others to reassess their stance.
This recognition also provides the Taliban with a much-needed diplomatic victory. For the group, gaining legitimacy on the world stage has been a key goal since regaining power. The move could open the door for trade, humanitarian aid, and future cooperation.
Whether more countries will follow Russia’s example remains to be seen. But for now, the Russian government has taken a bold step in shaping new diplomatic realities in Afghanistan.
