Russia Recognizes Taliban Government Amid Limited Global Support

On July 3, 2025, Russia became the first country to formally recognize the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan, a move symbolized by accepting the credentials of the Taliban-appointed ambassador and raising the Islamic Emirate’s white flag over its embassy in Moscow. Russian officials framed this recognition as a step toward regional security cooperation and strengthening ties in trade, energy, and infrastructure, though critics emphasize the Taliban's ongoing repression, extremist policies, and failure to combat terrorism. In contrast, Pakistan’s Foreign Office has rejected claims it intends to recognize the Taliban government, describing such reports as speculative while engaging in diplomatic and security dialogues with Afghanistan to address mutual concerns including terrorism and refugee management. The Taliban’s rule has been marked by widespread human rights abuses, including severe restrictions on women’s education and public repression, which challenge Moscow’s justification that recognition aims to combat terrorism. Russia’s recognition comes amid its waning international influence and strategic recalibration focused on Ukraine and regional interests, highlighting Moscow’s limited capacity to shape outcomes beyond its immediate priorities. Despite Russia’s move, the Taliban remains designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, underscoring the controversial and symbolic nature of Moscow’s endorsement.