Zakharova: Contact with Taliban Necessary for Counterterrorism Efforts

Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, has addressed concerns regarding Russia’s interactions with the Taliban, asserting that such contact aligns with Russia’s national interests.

Zakharova acknowledged that some bloggers and journalists have expressed apprehension about Russia’s engagement with the Taliban.

Speaking at an economic meeting in St. Petersburg, she mentioned that the potential removal of the Taliban from Russia’s list of banned terrorist organizations is under consideration, citing the necessity of communication with the group.

However, Zakharova did not specify a timeline for when Moscow might delist the Taliban, stating that it depends on resolving challenges in Afghanistan.