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Russia Deepens Ties with Taliban to Combat ISIS-K and Boost Cooperation

Moscow pledges security support, moves toward diplomatic normalization, and plans economic talks with Afghanistan's Taliban-led government.

Zamir Kabulov addresses the media during international talks on Afghanistan in Moscow, Russia, October 20, 2021. Alexander Zemlianichenko/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo

Overview

  • Russia will assist the Taliban in Afghanistan through specialized support to combat the shared threat of ISIS-K, referred to as a 'common enemy' by Russian envoy Zamir Kabulov.
  • The Taliban has been formally removed from Russia's terrorist organization list, enabling full legal cooperation between the two governments.
  • Moscow has offered to accredit an Afghan ambassador and is awaiting Kabul’s response, signaling steps toward diplomatic normalization.
  • A Russia-Afghanistan business forum is planned in Kazan to discuss trade and infrastructure projects, including potential mineral development and gas pipelines.
  • This strategic realignment follows a deadly ISIS-linked attack near Moscow in 2024, underscoring Russia's shift toward collaboration with the Taliban.