Moscow: In an important foreign policy move, Russia has officially removed the Taliban from its list of terrorist organizations, signaling a shift in its approach towards Afghanistan. This decision comes after the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021, following the U.S. military withdrawal, said a Reuters report.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced the policy change, stating that adapting to Afghanistan’s political reality is essential for fostering regional stability. Lavrov emphasized that while Russia remains cautious about extremist elements in Afghanistan, engaging with the Taliban is necessary to prevent the country from becoming a haven for terrorist groups like ISIS.
“The situation has evolved, and we must adjust our policies accordingly,” Lavrov said, highlighting the importance of cooperation with the Taliban on issues such as border security, counterterrorism, and the fight against drug trafficking.
Russia’s move is part of its broader strategy to strengthen diplomatic ties in Central Asia, where instability in Afghanistan poses risks to neighboring countries. By delisting the Taliban, Moscow aims to pave the way for formal diplomatic and security cooperation.
The decision has drawn mixed reactions globally. Western nations, including the United States, still classify the Taliban as a terrorist organization and have voiced concerns about Russia’s position. Human rights groups have also criticized the move, citing the Taliban’s restrictive policies, particularly towards women and minorities.
Despite these concerns, Russia views direct engagement with the Taliban as a pragmatic step to maintain influence in regional security affairs and address emerging threats.
