Russia has accepted the credentials of a Taliban-appointed ambassador, officially recognising the government in Kabul.
In a move that reshapes global diplomacy, Russia has become the first country to officially recognise the Taliban-led administration in Afghanistan. The development follows Moscow’s decision to accept a new Afghan ambassador, signalling formal state-to-state engagement.
Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi called the step “bold” and expressed hope that other nations will now reconsider their positions. “We value this courageous step taken by Russia,” he said.
The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed the decision in a statement on Thursday, stating it aims to deepen cooperation with Afghanistan in several sectors. These include national security, counter-terrorism, energy, transport, and agriculture.
“We believe this recognition will help grow strong and productive cooperation between our countries,” the ministry said.
Russia’s change in position comes after decades of friction. In 2003, Moscow listed the Taliban as a terrorist group. That ban was lifted in April 2025. Now, both nations are working closely on regional stability.
The shift is largely driven by joint concern over extremist threats, especially from ISIS-K. The group was linked to the deadly attack on a Moscow concert hall in March 2024, where 149 people were killed.
Long before the official recognition, trade between Russia and Afghanistan had quietly grown. Since 2022, Kabul has been importing Russian fuel, grain, and wheat, strengthening their economic relationship.
President Vladimir Putin has described the Taliban as an important regional partner, particularly in the fight against terrorism.
Russia’s move is likely to draw criticism, especially from the U.S., which has maintained sanctions on the Taliban government. Billions of dollars in Afghan assets remain frozen due to the group’s restrictions on women’s rights and freedoms.
No Western country has recognised the Taliban government since they took power in 2021 after U.S. forces withdrew.
Despite its complicated history in Afghanistan, Russia now sees strategic importance in building ties with the Taliban. The Kremlin believes cooperation is necessary as regional threats evolve.
The recognition may now pressure other countries to rethink their approach and possibly signal the start of a new chapter in Afghanistan’s global relations.
