KABUL — Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government yesterday hailed Russia as the first country to officially recognise its rule, calling it a “brave decision” and a “new phase of positive relations.”

The announcement came after Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met Russian ambassador Dmitry Zhirnov in Kabul. Russia’s foreign ministry said the recognition would strengthen bilateral cooperation in energy, trade, and regional security.

Moscow has already accepted a Taliban ambassador, removed the group from its terrorist list, and plans to use Afghanistan as a regional gas transit hub.

Previously, only Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and the UAE recognised the Taliban during their 1996–2001 regime.

Critics, including Afghan women activists, condemned Russia’s move as legitimising a government that restricts women’s rights and shelters UN-sanctioned terrorists. Former MP Mariam Solaimankhil warned it prioritises “strategic interests over human rights.”