Russia has announced its intention to assist the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan in combating the local branch of Islamic State, ISIS-K (Islamic State Khorasan). Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s special envoy for Afghanistan and a former ambassador to the country, described ISIS-K as a “common enemy” and praised the Taliban’s ongoing efforts to counter the group. In an interview with Russia’s state news agency RIA, Kabulov said, “We see and appreciate the efforts that the Taliban are making in the fight against the Afghan wing of ISIS. We will provide our best assistance to the authorities of Afghanistan through specialised structures.”

Although no country currently recognizes the Taliban government, which took power in August 2021 following the chaotic US-led withdrawal, Russia has taken steps toward normalization. Last month, Moscow officially removed the Taliban from its list of terrorist organizations—a designation it had maintained since 2003.

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This move marks a significant shift in Russia’s stance and signals deeper engagement. Russian President Vladimir Putin last year referred to the Taliban as an “ally” in the fight against terrorism. The growing partnership comes as Russia deals with its own ISIS-linked security threats, including the March 2024 attack on a Moscow-area concert hall that killed 145 people. US intelligence attributed the massacre to ISIS-K.

Kabulov also said that Russia and Afghanistan are expanding cooperation across several sectors. Moscow has offered to accredit an Afghan ambassador and is awaiting a response from Kabul. “The arrival of the Afghan ambassador in Moscow will put a final end to this issue,” Kabulov stated, referring to the diplomatic normalization.

Russia plans to deepen trade, business, and investment relations with Afghanistan, leveraging the country’s strategic location for future infrastructure and energy initiatives. Mineral development and gas pipeline projects are expected to be key topics at an upcoming Russia-Afghanistan business forum in Kazan later this month.

(With inputs from Reuters)