In a stunning geopolitical shift, Russia has become the first country to officially recognise the Taliban government in Afghanistan. Russian Ambassador Dmitry Zhirnov personally conveyed the recognition to Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul, marking what Taliban leaders called a "new phase" in bilateral relations.
The Kremlin, now seeking to strengthen regional influence, sees commercial potential in Afghanistan’s energy, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors, despite global condemnation of the Taliban's human rights record. Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban have faced international isolation for enforcing brutal Sharia laws and gender apartheid. Yet, Russia has maintained its embassy, signed economic deals, removed the Taliban from its terror list, and labeled them allies in the fight against extremism. As the West tightens sanctions, Russia's move could set a precedent for others considering formal engagement with Kabul's hardline rulers.
