Russia Moves to Remove Taliban Terror Designation

Russia's State Duma has advanced a bill that could lead to the removal of the Taliban from its list of designated terrorist organizations, signaling a potential shift in Moscow's diplomatic stance towards Afghanistan. The bill was approved in the first of three required readings, reflecting Russia's growing engagement with the Taliban since it regained control in August 2021. President Putin has described the Taliban as an ally in the fight against terrorism, amidst concerns over Islamist militant threats in the region. Despite this move, international recognition of the Taliban remains stalled due to their restrictive policies on women's rights, including the closure of schools for girls. Analysts suggest that the legislation, if enacted, would bolster the Taliban's legitimacy on the global stage. This development comes as Russia navigates its historical involvement in Afghanistan and seeks to stabilize its influence in the region.