RASC News Agency: Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, has announced that a high-ranking Russian delegation is set to visit Afghanistan in the near future. During his meeting with Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Taliban’s Foreign Minister, Kabulov revealed that the delegation would focus on advancing bilateral cooperation between Russia and the Taliban regime. The Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in an official statement, reported that the discussions encompassed economic collaboration, investment initiatives, and transit agreements. The statement further noted that “the Foreign Minister underscored the importance of expanding economic ties and fostering trade partnerships between the Russian Federation and the Islamic Emirate.”
This announcement coincides with heightened regional diplomacy concerning Afghanistan, particularly amidst growing apprehensions following Donald Trump’s recent victory in the U.S. presidential elections. China, Russia, and Iran, forming a regional power triangle, are working strategically to establish a regional consensus focused on Afghanistan under Taliban control. At the same time, Yue Xiaoyong, China’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, has conducted a series of visits to regional capitals, engaging with officials to deliberate on Afghanistan’s evolving situation.
These nations harbor deep concerns about potential shifts in U.S. policy under Trump, while also recognizing the critical role that U.S. financial, political, and intelligence support has played in sustaining the Taliban over the past three years. Regional analysts argue that, without such backing, the Taliban’s rule would not have lasted even a month. This intensifying regional engagement reflects the delicate balancing act among neighboring powers as they navigate the complex geopolitical realities of Afghanistan under Taliban rule, balancing their interests against the uncertainty of U.S. involvement and influence.
