Russia Only Country to Recognize Taliban in Afghan Solar Year 1404

In solar year 1404 of the Hijri Shamsi calendar, Russia became the first and only country to recognize the Taliban, while other nations refrained from doing so.

The Taliban established close relations with India and expanded diplomatic presence in Europe, including Germany. Pakistan, previously a key ally, aligned against the Taliban in enmity. Efforts by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran and other regional countries to resolve the dispute failed.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said: "To establish peace and tranquility, and for dialogue and diplomacy to be reactivated, we will mobilize all our capabilities. In this regard, recently with our efforts, it was decided that conflicts between Pakistan and Afghanistan be halted during Eid. At least, we welcome with satisfaction that hands are lifted from triggers between the two brother countries, no bloodshed occurs, and the two brother nations can celebrate Eid in peace."

The United States held talks with the Taliban, mediated by Qatar, resulting in the release of some American hostages. However, Washington did not normalize relations as the Taliban had hoped. The Trump administration criticized countries engaging with the Taliban and listed Afghanistan among nations supporting unfair detentions.

United Nations efforts under the Doha process remained limited to counter-narcotics and the private sector, failing to break Afghanistan's political deadlock.

Reports emerged of internal differences within Taliban leadership, particularly between Hibatullah Akhundzada's circle and the Haqqani network. The Taliban leader emphasized unconditional obedience, with no moves toward internal political legitimacy. No domestic opposition movement formed inside Afghanistan, and external opposition forces remained scattered without influence on internal policymaking.

The international community, including major allies Russia and China, continued to demand an inclusive government, but the Taliban insisted on absolute sovereignty.