Russia becomes first country to recognise Taliban government | AFP

Russia has become the first country to officially recognise its rule, says the Afghan government. The Taliban swept back to power in 2021 after ousting the foreign-backed government and have imposed an austere version of Islamic law. Only Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates recognised the Taliban during their first stint in power from 1996 to 2001. This time, multiple other states, including China and Pakistan, have accepted Taliban ambassadors in their capitals but have not officially recognised the Islamic Emirate.