In a historic shift, Russia has become the first country to formally recognise the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan, a move that marks a significant moment in international relations. This development came after a meeting between Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, and Russia’s Ambassador to Kabul, Dmitry Zhirnov, on Thursday. Zhirnov conveyed Russia’s decision, solidifying the Taliban’s rule on the global stage.
Muttaqi called the recognition a “courageous” decision, describing it as the start of “positive relations, mutual respect, and constructive engagement” between the two nations. He also added that this recognition would serve as a model for other countries.
“The recognition of the government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan will provide a boost to bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including energy, agriculture, and infrastructure,” Russia’s foreign ministry said in a statement. The ministry added that this recognition would enable collaboration in combating terrorism and drug trafficking, issues that have plagued the region for decades.
Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, the group has made efforts to gain international recognition and secure investment in Afghanistan, despite widespread reports of human rights violations under its regime. Russia, which has maintained diplomatic ties with Afghanistan, was one of the few nations to keep its embassy open in Kabul after the Taliban took control in August 2021.
Notably, Russia was the first to sign an economic agreement with the Taliban in 2022, which included the supply of oil, gas, and wheat to Afghanistan. Earlier this year, Russia removed the Taliban from its list of terrorist organisations, a significant step towards establishing a “full-fledged partnership” with Kabul. Russian President Vladimir Putin also referred to the Taliban as an “ally” in the global fight against terrorism during talks in 2022.
The relationship between Russia and Afghanistan is a complex one, dating back to the Soviet invasion of the country in 1979. The subsequent nine-year conflict cost the Soviet Union dearly, both in terms of personnel and international reputation. Moscow eventually withdrew from Afghanistan in 1989, leaving behind a turbulent legacy.
Despite Russia’s recognition, the international community remains divided on the issue. Western governments and humanitarian organisations have heavily criticised the Taliban government for its enforcement of strict interpretations of Sharia law, including severe restrictions on women’s rights. Women in Afghanistan have been barred from secondary and higher education, forced to wear full-body coverings, and required to be accompanied by a male guardian when leaving their homes. In addition, recent laws have placed even tighter constraints on women’s freedom of speech.
The United Nations has labelled these restrictions as “gender apartheid” and has reported instances of public floggings and violence against former government officials. Since the Taliban’s return to power, Afghanistan has also been subject to strict international sanctions, including the freezing of around $9 billion in assets.
Russia, however, sees potential for economic growth and stability in Afghanistan under the Taliban. “The establishment of diplomatic relations will help develop commercial and economic cooperation,” Russia’s foreign ministry emphasized.
With this recognition, Russia joins China, Pakistan, the UAE, and Uzbekistan, which have all appointed ambassadors to Afghanistan, but it remains the only country to formally acknowledge the Taliban as the legitimate governing authority.
As Afghanistan continues to navigate the complexities of international recognition, Russia’s decision to take this step signals the start of a new chapter in the nation’s relations with the global community.
