Russia Lifts Taliban Ban, Moves Toward Normalization

Russia's Supreme Court has lifted the Taliban's terrorist designation, ending a ban in place since 2003 and signaling a significant step toward normalizing ties with Afghanistan's de facto rulers. The move follows recent high-level diplomatic exchanges and economic forums involving Taliban officials in Russia since their return to power in 2021. Russian authorities view the Taliban as potential allies against threats like ISIS-K, responsible for the March 2024 Moscow concert hall attack. Despite the policy shift, Russia has not granted formal diplomatic recognition to the Taliban, citing concerns over women's rights and government inclusivity. The decision brings Russia's approach in line with regional powers such as Kazakhstan and China, which have also increased engagement with the Taliban. International recognition remains dependent on the Taliban enacting substantial policy changes, particularly regarding human rights.