Russia Forms Full Partnership with Taliban
Analysis based on 6 articles · First reported May 14, 2026 · Last updated May 14, 2026
The establishment of a full-fledged partnership between Russia and the Taliban government in Afghanistan could lead to increased regional stability and economic cooperation, potentially benefiting Russia's geopolitical influence and Afghanistan's international standing. This development might also influence other Shanghai Cooperation Organisation members to engage more with Afghanistan.
Russia is establishing a 'full-fledged partnership' with Afghanistan's ruling Taliban, encouraging other regional countries to expand cooperation with Kabul. This move follows Russia's formal recognition of the Taliban government last year, after the U.S.-led forces withdrew from Afghanistan. Sergei Shoigu, secretary of Russia's Security Council, emphasized the importance of cooperation for regional security and development, advocating for a 'pragmatic dialogue' encompassing security, trade, culture, and humanitarian support. Russia also lifted its 2003 ban on the Taliban as a terrorist movement in April 2025. Shoigu urged the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, which includes China, India, Iran, and Pakistan, to revive its contact group with Afghanistan, highlighting Russia's need to work with Kabul against Islamist militant threats.
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