Overview

• Russia's Supreme Court has suspended the Taliban's designation as a terrorist organization, effective immediately, following a petition by the Prosecutor General.
• The move serves as a symbolic step toward normalizing relations with the Taliban, facilitating diplomatic and economic engagement while avoiding formal recognition.
• President Vladimir Putin previously referred to the Taliban as allies in combating terrorism, highlighting shared efforts against Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K).
• Russia has strengthened ties with Afghanistan's de facto rulers since their 2021 takeover, opening a business office in Kabul and hosting Taliban officials at major forums.
• The decision reflects broader geopolitical shifts in the region, with other nations like China and Kazakhstan also fostering ties with the Taliban without granting official recognition.