Russia says it's establishing 'full partnership' with Afghan Taliban

AI Summary

Russia is confirming its establishment of a 'full-fledged partnership' with the Taliban in Afghanistan, seeking to strengthen regional cooperation in the aftermath of the Taliban takeover. This move underscores significant geopolitical implications.

MOSCOW, May 14 (Reuters) - Russia is establishing a "full-fledged partnership" with Afghanistan's ruling Taliban and is encouraging other countries in the region to expand cooperation with Kabul, a senior Russian security official was quoted on Thursday as saying. Russia last year became the first country to formally recognise the Islamist Taliban government that seized power in August 2021 as U.S.-led forces staged a chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan after 20 years of war.