Russia Deepens Ties With Taliban, Signals Full Partnership

Russia is moving to build a “full-fledged partnership” with Afghanistan’s Taliban leadership and is urging regional powers to deepen cooperation with Kabul, Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu said on Thursday, according to Interfax.

Moscow last year became the first country to formally recognize the Taliban government following its return to power in August 2021, when US-led forces withdrew after two decades of war.

Shoigu said closer engagement with Kabul was essential for regional security and economic development. He described Russia’s approach as a “pragmatic dialogue” encompassing security, trade, cultural exchanges and humanitarian assistance.

He made the remarks at a meeting of leaders from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), which includes China, India, Iran, Pakistan and several post-Soviet states.

Shoigu also called for the revival of the SCO’s contact group on Afghanistan.

Russia designated the Taliban a terrorist organization in 2003, but lifted the ban in April 2025.

(reuters, bak)