Moscow, Taliban forge military alliance in power grab after US Afghanistan exit: reports Russia and the Taliban government have signed a military cooperation pact, strengthening Moscow’s influence in Central Asia and expanding bilateral relations. This move follows statements from Russian officials about a “full-fledged partnership” with Kabul. Russian officials also called for Western countries to unfreeze Afghan assets and take responsibility for post-conflict reconstruction.

• Russia and the Taliban government have signed a military cooperation pact.
• The deal was finalized at an international security forum in Russia.
• The pact follows meetings between Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu and Afghan Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob.
• Yaqoob stated that Afghanistan and Russia want to move forward with their “long and historical relations” and expand bilateral ties.
• A senior Russian security official noted Moscow has established a “full-fledged partnership” with the Taliban.
• Russia was the first country to formally recognize the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.
• The recognition of the Taliban is seen as a symbolic gesture to enhance Russia’s image as an influential global power.
• Shoigu called for Western countries to unfreeze Afghan assets and take responsibility for Afghanistan’s reconstruction.
• Moscow emphasizes the need to work directly with Kabul to address security threats from rival Islamist militant groups.
• Russia is building a “pragmatic dialogue” with the Taliban covering security, trade, culture, and humanitarian support.