The Russian government is contemplating the removal of the Taliban from its list of terrorist organizations to facilitate greater communication, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. Peskov stated that due to the Taliban's control over Afghanistan, they are being considered for international dialogue.
Addressing the press, Peskov emphasized the necessity of engaging with the Taliban, as they are the de facto authority in Afghanistan. He highlighted the importance of resolving pressing issues, likely referring to recent terror attacks, including a devastating incident in the national capital that claimed over a hundred lives.
Recently, Russia faced its worst terrorist attack in two decades when Tajik nationals carried out a deadly assault at Moscow's Crocus City concert hall. The attack, which resulted in the deaths of 137 individuals and left 180 others injured, was claimed by an Afghanistan-based affiliate of the Islamic State known as ISIS-K.
Despite both the Taliban and ISIS being Islamic extremist groups, they have been engaged in conflict for years. ISIS aims to challenge and supplant the Taliban in pursuit of a global caliphate, while the Taliban's objectives primarily revolve around regional control within Afghanistan.
Following the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. forces in 2021, the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan. The decision to potentially delist the Taliban as a terrorist organization underscores Russia's strategic approach to engaging with various factions in the region.
