Russia announced on July 3 that it officially recognizes the Taliban government of Afghanistan, making it the first country in the world to grant recognition since the group seized power in 2021.

Russia has become the first nation to recognize the Taliban government of Afghanistan since it took power in 2021, announcing on Thursday it has accepted an ambassador from the Islamist group.

Afghanistan has remained largely isolated since the Taliban seized power nearly four years ago, despite subtle signs of increased cooperation with countries like China and India.