NEWSALERT: Russia Becomes First Country to Recognize Taliban Government

Russia has formally recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan. It has become the first country to do so since the group gained power in August 2021.

The recognition followed a decision by Russia’s Supreme Court in April to remove the Taliban from its list of banned terrorist organizations. That led to the ending of a designation in place for over two decades. On Thursday, the Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed it had accepted the credentials of Afghanistan’s newly appointed ambassador, Gul Hassan Hassan, formalizing diplomatic ties.

Image Source: AF Post on X

The ministry said the move would support bilateral cooperation. Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry called it a historic development.

Since regaining control of Afghanistan following the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces, the Taliban administration has sought formal international recognition. Until now, no country had extended official diplomatic recognition, though the group maintained relations with countries including China, the United Arab Emirates, and Pakistan.

The Taliban government remains diplomatically isolated over its human rights record, particularly restrictions imposed on women and girls. Policies enforced since 2021 have barred women from most public spaces and employment, and prohibited girls from attending secondary and higher education.