Russia’s Supreme Court has approved a request from the Prosecutor General’s Office to suspend the Taliban’s designation as a terrorist organisation, marking a significant shift in Moscow’s legal stance toward the group.

The closed-door court session was held on Thursday, 17 April, during which a representative of the Taliban was reportedly present, according to state news agency RIA Novosti.

In a statement, the Prosecutor General’s Office said the legal grounds for the request stemmed from amendments made in December 2024 to Russia’s administrative procedure code and anti-terrorism legislation. These changes allow for the temporary suspension of a terrorist organisation’s status under specific conditions.

Based on information provided by “competent authorities,” the court deemed the request justified and ruled in favour of the suspension. A Supreme Court judge confirmed that the decision takes immediate effect.

Russia designated the Taliban as a terrorist organisation in 2003. However, the country has gradually expanded diplomatic and economic ties with the group in recent years. Moscow has even handed over the management of the Afghan embassy in the Russian capital to Taliban-appointed diplomats, though it has yet to formally recognise the Taliban as Afghanistan’s legitimate government.

Last year, President Vladimir Putin signed a decree amending several laws to allow for the temporary suspension of activities of designated terrorist groups. In July 2024, Putin publicly stated that Russia now considers the Taliban an ally in the fight against terrorism.

Under the revised legislation, Russia’s judicial authorities may temporarily lift the terrorist designation upon request from the Prosecutor General or a deputy, subject to court approval.

In accordance with the ruling, a copy of the decision will be forwarded to the Federal Security Service (FSB) within five days for the necessary adjustments to Russia’s official list of terrorist organisations.