Overview

• Russia's Supreme Court has lifted the Taliban's designation as a terrorist organization, effective immediately, following a request from the prosecutor general.
• This decision builds on President Vladimir Putin's 2024 decree paving the way for the Taliban's removal from the terror list and his description of the group as 'allies in the fight against terrorism.'
• The move facilitates economic and political ties, including trade agreements, while allowing Russian officials to meet Taliban representatives without legal barriers.
• Both Russia and the Taliban share a counterterrorism focus, particularly targeting Islamic State-Khorasan, which has carried out deadly attacks in both countries.
• The suspension does not equate to formal recognition of the Taliban government, which remains isolated internationally due to its human rights record, particularly concerning women and girls.