MOSCOW — President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia announced that Moscow is engaged with the Taliban in bilateral relations, emphasizing the need to strengthen ties despite the challenging situation in Afghanistan.
Speaking after the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Putin described the situation in Afghanistan as “complex” but noted signs of stabilization under Taliban leadership. His remarks were reported by the TASS news agency.
“We cannot ignore the fact that the situation in the country is stabilizing. We are engaged in bilateral relations with the current authorities of Afghanistan, and these relations will be developed further,” Mr. Putin said.
He underscored the importance of continued vigilance, particularly for CSTO member states, given the country’s security challenges. “The situation in Afghanistan is complex,” he said. “Still, we hope to build strong relations with Afghanistan.”
The CSTO, a Russia-led security bloc of post-Soviet states, has expressed concerns about threats emanating from Afghanistan, including organized crime, drug trafficking, and extremist movements. Mr. Putin noted that addressing such issues is a priority for the organization.
High-level engagement
On November 25, a high-ranking Russian delegation led by Sergey Shoigu, the secretary of Russia’s Security Council, visited Afghanistan for talks with Taliban officials. The delegation also included Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk, highlighting Moscow’s efforts to deepen engagement with Kabul amid evolving regional dynamics.
Russia’s outreach aligns with broader efforts by neighboring powers, including China and Iran, to craft a coordinated response to Afghanistan. Analysts point to overlapping concerns about regional security, counterterrorism, and economic development as driving these discussions.
China has focused on advancing infrastructure projects under its Belt and Road Initiative, with stability in Afghanistan seen as vital to its investments across the region.
Russia remains particularly concerned about the potential spread of ISIS and other extremist groups into Central Asia, a region it considers within its sphere of influence.
Iran has emphasized humanitarian aid and economic cooperation, seeking to maintain a balance in its relations with Kabul.
