Russia may lift Taliban ban, signalling step toward diplomatic recognition

Moscow: The Russian Supreme Court is expected to deliver a verdict on Thursday regarding the removal of the Afghan Taliban from its list of banned terrorist organisations. The petition was filed by Russia’s Prosecutor General’s Office, led by Igor Krasnov.

The Taliban was officially designated as a terrorist group by Russia in 2003. However, since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan following the U.S. withdrawal in August 2021, Russia has been gradually increasing its engagement with the group.

The court proceedings will be held in camera, according to Russian media reports. The Prosecutor General’s appeal follows recommendations made in May 2024 by the Russian Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Justice to President Vladimir Putin, urging that the Taliban be delisted as a necessary step towards full diplomatic recognition.

Russia has maintained practical relations with the Taliban, but official recognition has been withheld. Presidential envoy Zamir Kabulov had earlier stated that Moscow would not grant full diplomatic recognition unless the Taliban forms an inclusive government and upholds fundamental human rights, especially for women.

Meanwhile, several Central Asian nations bordering Afghanistan have already established diplomatic contacts with the Taliban-led government.

If approved, the court decision would mark a major shift in Russia’s formal stance and could pave the way for stronger bilateral ties with the Kabul regime.

(With PTI inputs)