Russia has announced that it is establishing a “full-fledged partnership” with Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government, signaling a major shift in regional diplomacy and Moscow’s approach toward Kabul.

Speaking during a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu said Moscow was developing a pragmatic relationship with the Taliban administration focused on security, trade, culture, and humanitarian cooperation. He stressed that stronger engagement with Kabul was important for regional stability and development.

Russia became the first country to formally recognise the Taliban government after the group returned to power in Afghanistan following the withdrawal of US-led forces in 2021. Moscow had previously removed the Taliban from its list of banned terrorist organisations in 2025, paving the way for expanded diplomatic engagement.

Shoigu also urged SCO member states, including China, Pakistan, India, and Iran, to revive the organisation’s contact group on Afghanistan to strengthen coordination on regional security issues.

Analysts believe Russia’s growing cooperation with the Taliban reflects its broader strategy to counter militant threats, expand influence in Central Asia, and secure economic and geopolitical interests in the region.

The development marks another step toward Afghanistan’s gradual reintegration into regional diplomacy despite ongoing international concerns regarding governance and human rights under Taliban rule.