Moscow-Taliban Security Talks: Russia Demands Handover of ISIS Fighters

A Russian official, in a meeting with Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Taliban’s Interior Minister, requested the handover of eight Russian nationals affiliated with ISIS who are currently imprisoned by the Taliban. Additionally, Russia has asked the Taliban for detailed information regarding the Doha negotiations, ISIS attacks in Moscow, and CIA activities in Afghanistan.

 During the meeting, discussions were held regarding recent terrorist attacks by ISIS in Moscow, particularly the attack on Crocus City Hall on March 22, 2024. Russia considers these attacks a serious security threat and has requested further intelligence from the Taliban on ISIS-Khorasan and its potential connections to these incidents.

Request for Information on Doha Negotiations and CIA Operations in Afghanistan

Russian officials also sought detailed reports on the Doha negotiations between the Taliban and the United States. Moscow is keen to understand the specifics of the agreements reached, the topics discussed, and the overall negotiation process.

Additionally, the presence of CIA personnel in Afghanistan was a key discussion point. According to Russian sources, approximately 3,000 American intelligence operatives are stationed in Afghanistan. Russian authorities have asked the Taliban for data on the number of CIA agents based at the U.S. Embassy and other locations in Kabul, including the Ariana Hotel.

Growing Russia-Taliban Relations and Reactions from Extremist Groups

In recent months, diplomatic relations between Russia and the Taliban have expanded, with the Russian Duma removing some Taliban officials from international sanctions lists.

However, analysts suggest that this growing relationship has angered extremist groups, particularly ISIS, raising concerns about potential terrorist attacks in Afghanistan and Russia.

These discussions indicate an increasing level of security cooperation between Russia and the Taliban. However, the future trajectory, especially the reaction from terrorist groups and the U.S. stance on this cooperation, could significantly impact regional dynamics.