Geopolitical Tensions Rise: Russia Recognizes Taliban, Sparking U.S. Outrage

With Russia’s decision to remove the Taliban from the list of terrorist groups and recognize the governance of this group, the political balance in Afghanistan and the region has changed. This move by Moscow has provoked anger in Washington and may be the beginning of a new phase of geopolitical rivalry between Russia and the United States…

Kremlin’s Preparation for Change in Regional Policy

The Russian parliament, at the end of 2024, took the first step toward changing Moscow’s approach to Afghanistan by removing the Taliban from the list of terrorist groups. This decision paved the way for an official action by the Russian government to recognize the Taliban’s rule. Following this process, the Russian Foreign Ministry, in the month of Saratan 2025, issued an official statement recognizing the Taliban government.

Washington’s Anger at Moscow’s Preemptive Action

This development faced a strong reaction from the United States. Washington, which had no tangible achievements in foreign policy following the costly war between Israel and Iran, was angered by Russia’s action and the U.S. State Department issued a critical statement against Moscow. Donald Trump, the President of the United States, who is trying to regain initiative in international dossiers, was looking to restore his role in the Ukraine crisis after failing to mediate between Israel and Iran. However, his meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska also failed to yield any achievements for Washington.

Afghanistan; A New Field for Great Power Competition

Following Trump’s diplomatic failures, speculation about America’s renewed focus on Afghanistan has increased; a country that can now become the scene of new competition between Washington and Moscow. The Taliban, which in the past tried to leverage relations with the two great powers for its advantage, has now become a card in the political game between Russia and the United States.

The Risk of Instability Returning to Central Asia

Experts believe this situation could turn Afghanistan into a new ground for competition and proxy conflicts. Analysts warn that if the U.S. resorts to supporting armed groups in the region to counter Russian influence, Central Asia and the southern borders of Russia will once again face a fresh wave of insecurity.