On July 3, 2025, Russia officially recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan by accepting the credentials of a new Afghan ambassador.
The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that this move aims to foster bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
This decision follows the removal of the Taliban from Russia's list of banned terrorist organizations in April 2025, indicating a shift toward formal recognition.
In May 2025, Russia announced its intention to support the Taliban in combating ISIS-K, highlighting a growing alliance focused on counter-terrorism and economic expansion.
Despite these developments, the Taliban's governance faces international scrutiny, particularly regarding human rights.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov previously emphasized the need for the Taliban to address women's rights and establish an inclusive government for full recognition.
The recognition by Russia significantly alters international relations and could reshape the regional geopolitical landscape.