Putin: Afghanistan Must Be United, Stable, and Have an Inclusive Government.
A new chapter in Moscow-Kabul relations: the Taliban ambassador officially begins his diplomatic mission.
Gul Hasan, the Taliban’s ambassador to Moscow, formally presented his credentials to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, 15 January 2026, during an official ceremony held in the Alexander Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace.
The event was attended by newly appointed ambassadors from several countries, marking the official start of the Taliban’s diplomatic mission in Russia.
During the ceremony, President Putin highlighted Afghanistan’s status as an observer member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and noted the acceleration of relations between Moscow and Kabul in recent months.
Putin emphasized that this progress has been reinforced following Russia’s decision to formally recognize the new administration in Afghanistan.
He stated that Moscow seeks an Afghanistan that is united, stable, independent, and governed inclusively a country free from war, terrorism, and drug trafficking.
Russia remains the only country to have officially recognized the Taliban administration and expanded diplomatic relations at the embassy level.
Gul Hasan arrived in Moscow in July 2025 and began his official duties as the Taliban’s ambassador.
Experts suggest that strengthening relations between Moscow and Kabul could pave the way for expanded cooperation in political, security, and economic sectors, although the move has also triggered regional and international concern.
