Russia Plans Support for Taliban Against ISIS-K in Afghanistan

Russia has announced its intention to support the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan in combating the Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K), which both Moscow and Kabul view as a common enemy. This move follows Russia's recent removal of the Taliban from its list of terrorist organizations, marking a significant diplomatic shift and paving the way for deeper cooperation. Russian officials praised the Taliban's efforts against ISIS-K and offered specialized assistance, while also initiating steps toward full diplomatic relations, including the potential accreditation of an Afghan ambassador in Moscow. The partnership comes amid heightened ISIS-K threats in Russia, including the deadly March 2024 attack near Moscow. Alongside security collaboration, Russia and Afghanistan are expanding economic ties, with discussions planned for future joint projects in energy, infrastructure, and mineral development at an upcoming business forum. Despite no international recognition of the Taliban government, Russia's approach signals a pragmatic alignment against mutual security threats and toward broader engagement.