The Shift in Russian Policy: From Taliban Foes to Allies
In a surprising turn of events, Russian officials have announced plans to remove the Taliban from the list of terrorist organizations. This move signals a potential shift in Russia’s attitude towards the de facto rulers of Afghanistan, viewing them as potential partners in combating groups like ISIS.
After establishing contacts with the Taliban government in 2021, Moscow has decided to formalize their relationship by removing them from the terrorist list. This decision comes at a crucial time, as the Taliban took power in Kabul amidst the chaotic withdrawal of US troops, ending a 20-year Western occupation of Afghanistan.
President Putin has acknowledged the Taliban’s control over Afghanistan and hinted at potential cooperation in the fight against terrorism. While Foreign Minister Lavrov has outlined conditions for recognizing the Taliban government, such as their commitment to fighting drug trade and terrorism.
With the removal of the Taliban from the terrorist list, Russia aims to engage in pragmatic cooperation with the group, particularly in combating organized crime and ISIS-K. This shift in policy reflects a calculated approach towards stabilizing the region and addressing shared security concerns.
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