Russia Becomes First Country to Officially Recognise Taliban Government
In a landmark diplomatic move, Russia has recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan for the first time since the latter seized power in August 2021. In an important shift in international relations, Russia’s recognition may affect how other countries will deal with Afghanistan in the future.
Official Recognition Announced by the Russian Government
On July 3, 2025, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that it has taken the Taliban off its list of organisations prohibited for entry, paving the way for full recognition of diplomatic relations. To formalise the process, Russia accepted the credentials of Afghanistan’s new ambassador, Gul Hassan Hassan, appointed by the Taliban-led government in Kabul.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the official recognition would strengthen cooperation between Afghanistan and Russia on a bilateral basis. It added that it had taken the decision to formally accept Taliban diplomats after reviewing the realities in Afghanistan and deciding it was in the practical interests of Russia to engage with the new regime.
Taliban Welcomes the Recognition
In response, Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry, under the control of the Taliban, welcomed the announcement and deemed it a historic step. Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Taliban Foreign Minister, called Russia’s acceptance of their government “a good example for other countries to follow.”
The Taliban expressed hope that countries will now see the Russian example and begin to have official relations with Afghanistan that would lead to recognition of their government.
Background: Taliban’s Comes Back to Power
Taliban regained power in August 2021 when U.S. and NATO withdrew troops from Afghanistan. The Taliban has controlled the country since, but without recognition from the vast majority of international community over concerns relating to human rights, women’s education and political inclusion.
Thereafter the Taliban regime had been governing de facto, but with little connection to international institutions and foreign governments without recognition.
Why Russia’s Position Matters
For Russia to officially recognize the Taliban regime, holds significant political weight. It is a permanent member of the UN Security Council and play a huge role in matters of security and diplomacy in Central and South Asia.
In officially recognizing the Taliban regime, Russia will be the first significant power to basically legitimise the opportunity for full diplomatic relations with Afghanistan under the Taliban. This eventually could be the tipping point for other neighbouring states such as China, Iran, and Pakistan that have engaged with the Taliban but have not taken the step to legitimacy.