Russia will help the Taliban in their fight against the Afghan branch of the Islamic State. This was announced by Moscow's special representative for the country, quoted by Reuters.
Zamir Kabulov, a former Russian ambassador to Afghanistan, noted that the Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K) is a "common enemy" of Moscow and Kabul. He stressed that Russia appreciates the Taliban's efforts in the fight against the Afghan wing of the Islamic State. According to him, Moscow will provide its best assistance to the Afghan authorities through specialized structures.
Currently, no country recognizes the Taliban government, which seized power in August 2021, when US-led forces withdrew from Afghanistan after 20 years of war.
Kabulov pointed out that Moscow and Kabul are building ties in many areas. According to him, Russia has offered to accredit an Afghan ambassador to Moscow and is waiting for Kabul's response.
In April, Russia removed the Taliban from its list of terrorist organizations. The diplomat noted that this move removes all obstacles to full cooperation between the two countries.
Russia announced last month that it aims to strengthen trade, business and investment ties with Kabul, using Afghanistan's strategic position for future energy and infrastructure projects.