Afghanistan’s leadership has stated that Russia is now the first nation to formally acknowledge its authority, describing the move as a "courageous step."
The Taliban regained control in 2021 after removing the internationally backed administration and have since enforced a strict interpretation of Islamic law.
The declaration came on Thursday after Afghanistan’s top diplomat, Amir Khan Muttaqi, held discussions with Russia’s envoy to the country, Dmitry Zhirnov, in Kabul.
"This bold step should set a precedent for others … now that formal acknowledgment has begun, Russia led the way," Muttaqi said in footage of the meeting shared online.
A representative from the foreign affairs office, Hafiz Zia Ahmad Takal, confirmed to AFP that "Russia is the first nation to officially accept the Islamic Emirate," referring to the title the group uses for its rule.
Zamir Kabulov, Moscow’s envoy for Afghanistan, informed the Russian state media outlet Ria Novosti that the government had "acknowledged" the Taliban administration. The ministry of foreign affairs also verified the development to Tass news agency.
This decision follows shortly after Gul Hassan, a Taliban official, was appointed as Kabul’s representative in Moscow.
Russia has worked to strengthen ties with the acting authorities, revoking the group’s classification as a "terrorist entity" earlier this year and including its delegates in formal engagements.
It was also the first country to establish a trade office in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s return and has expressed intentions to utilize the nation as a passage for gas exports to parts of Asia.
In mid-2024, Russia’s leader referred to the Taliban as "partners in combating extremism."
Previously, only three nations had acknowledged the Taliban during their initial rule from the late 1990s to 2001.
This time, several others, including China and its neighbor, have hosted Taliban envoys in their capitals but have not formally recognized the administration as an Islamic emirate.
However, their policies restricting women and girls—denying them schooling and limiting their presence in public life—have been a major obstacle for wider international acceptance.
The acting authorities have actively pursued official recognition and foreign support as the country emerges from decades of conflict, including a prolonged occupation in the late 20th century.
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