Russia's cooperation with the Taliban

Secretary of the Security Council of Russia Sergei Shoigu has announced that his country is entering a new era in its relations with the Taliban government in Afghanistan. Stating that Moscow has now established a "full-fledged partnership" with the Taliban administration, Shoigu said that the ongoing dialogue covers the areas of security, trade, culture, and humanitarian aid.

Shoigu made these remarks at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's security summit, which was also attended by China, India, Iran, Pakistan, and former Soviet republics. At this meeting, it was emphasized that Russia attaches importance to relations with Afghanistan not only for its own interests but also to ensure the security of the entire region.

Last year, Russia became one of the first countries to officially recognize the Taliban government. The Putin administration ended the ban on the Taliban, which it had designated as a "terrorist organization" in 2003, in April 2025. These steps are considered a response to the growing threat of radical groups active in the geography stretching from Afghanistan to the Middle East.

Russia deems it necessary to be in direct contact with Afghanistan in order to prevent potential instability in Central Asian countries and to increase regional security. Emphasizing that a "pragmatic dialogue" is being conducted, Shoigu pointed out that all countries in the region should also improve their relations with Afghanistan.

Furthermore, the Russian official stated that the reactivation of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's Afghanistan Contact Group is vital for regional cooperation and stability.

While it is recalled that the Taliban regained control in Afghanistan in August 2021 following the withdrawal of US-led forces, Moscow's most comprehensive cooperation decision to date is being closely monitored in both regional and international circles.