Russia Hosts Taliban Delegation, Warns Against Foreign Military Presence in Afghanistan

Moscow Hosts Seventh 'Moscow Format' Consultations

The Russian Federation recently hosted a delegation from Afghanistan's ruling Taliban government during the seventh round of the 'Moscow Format' consultations on Afghanistan. The international meeting, held in Moscow on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, brought together officials from several regional countries to discuss the situation in Afghanistan and regional security concerns.

Russia Issues Strong Warning on Foreign Military Presence

During the consultations, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov delivered a stern warning against the deployment of military infrastructure by any third countries in Afghanistan or its neighboring states. Lavrov emphasized that 'the deployment of military infrastructure of any third countries on the territory of Afghanistan, as well as on the territories of neighboring states, is categorically unacceptable under any pretext.' He further stated that 'the military presence of any extra-regional players could only lead to destabilization and new conflicts,' drawing on Afghanistan's history of foreign military interventions.

Taliban Delegation Led by Acting Foreign Minister

The Taliban delegation was led by Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi. This meeting follows Russia's decision in July 2025 to officially recognize the Taliban government, removing it from its list of outlawed organizations. Russia's Special Representative for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, also reiterated Moscow's position against foreign military bases in the region.

Regional Cooperation and Criticisms of Western Policy

In his remarks, Minister Lavrov commended the Taliban government for its efforts in combating the Islamic State and other extremist groups, as well as its work to eradicate illegal drugs. He also expressed Russia's interest in expanding business ties and enhancing cooperation on anti-terrorism and anti-narcotics initiatives with Afghanistan. Lavrov used the platform to criticize Western policies, including the continued freezing of Afghan state assets and restrictions on its banking system, urging Western countries to 'correct their course' and take responsibility for Afghanistan's reconstruction. The meeting saw participation from officials representing China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, with Belarus also invited.