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Short Headline: Russia Removes Taliban from Terrorist List, Easing Relations
Russia's Supreme Court lifts the ban on the Taliban, removing them from the list of terrorist organizations. This move is expected to improve ties between Moscow and Kabul.
ND
by News Desk
2025-04-17
Short Headline: Russia Removes Taliban from Terrorist List, Easing Relations

In a significant shift in foreign policy, Russia has officially removed the Afghan Taliban from its list of designated terrorist organizations. The decision, made by Russia's Supreme Court, was made at the request of the Russian Prosecutor General. This move ends a ban that had been in place since 2003, when Russia first classified the Taliban as a terrorist group.

The lifting of this ban is expected to pave the way for improved relations between Moscow and Kabul, as Russia and the Taliban have been moving closer in recent years. Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin labeled the Taliban an ally in the fight against terrorism in 2022, further signaling a shift in Moscow’s diplomatic stance toward Afghanistan’s new leadership.

While the international community has yet to officially recognize the Taliban government, Russia is strategically building its ties with the group in the face of growing security threats. Experts argue that Russia views the Taliban as a crucial partner in combating extremist threats, especially after the deadly ISIS-Khorasan attack in March 2024, which left 145 dead in Moscow. Western diplomats, however, warn that the Taliban’s path to broader international recognition remains blocked due to ongoing concerns about its treatment of women.

As Russia moves forward in its diplomatic efforts, the future of Taliban recognition will largely depend on their internal policies, including their stance on women's rights. The ongoing shift in Russia’s relationship with Afghanistan may have profound implications for global security and international diplomacy.
Tagged:

Russia

Terrorism

Taliban

Diplomacy
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