‘Please, Don't Be Angry!': Putin-Trump Talk After U.S. Stops Weapons For Ukraine, Zelensky STUNNED
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News18
an hour ago
- News18
Explained: What Russia's Recognition Of Taliban Government Means For Afghan Diplomacy
Last Updated: Sources told News18 that Russia's recognition is considered a step in the right direction for the Taliban regime but short of full international legitimacy. Russia officially recognised the Taliban government of Afghanistan on July 3, 2025, becoming the first nation to do so and signaling a major diplomatic change in the region. The step, which was announced following a meeting in Kabul between Russian Ambassador Dmitry Zhirnov and Afghanistan's Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, has been labeled by Afghan officials as a 'historic step" and the start of a new era in bilateral relations. But the significance of this recognition remains complicated, since formal international validation of the Taliban is still dependent upon the United Nations and global opinion. Sources told News18 that Russia's recognition is considered a step in the right direction for the Taliban regime but short of full international legitimacy. Sources highlight that formal recognition from the UN protocol division is required, and until that time comes, the Taliban will be diplomatically isolated. The development is considered part of a larger trend with most nations interacting with the Taliban at various levels to secure their interests and ensure regional stability. India has followed a watchful but pragmatic policy towards the Taliban regime. Although New Delhi has not officially recognised the Taliban, it has resumed a diplomatic mission in Kabul and permitted the Taliban to send a Consul General to Mumbai. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri just held talks with Taliban representatives, which was the highest level of interaction since the Taliban came to power. India's engagement is motivated by security interests, competition for influence in the region against China, and an interest in keeping a handle on Afghanistan. Russia's Diplomatic Revitalisation: From Isolation to Engagement Russia's relationship with the Taliban has evolved dramatically over the past two decades. In 2003, Russia designated the Taliban as a terrorist organisation due to its support for separatists in the North Caucasus. However, the Taliban's resurgence in 2021 and the shifting geopolitical landscape prompted Moscow to reassess its stance. In April 2025, Russia's Supreme Court removed the Taliban from its list of banned organizations, paving the way for official recognition. The Announcement and What It Means Russia's Foreign Ministry made the announcement that it accepted credentials from Afghanistan's newly appointed Ambassador Gul Hassan Hassan, marking the beginning of 'productive bilateral cooperation." The ministry highlighted that this acknowledgement would promote cooperation in the fields of energy, agriculture, and anti-terrorism. Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi welcomed the move, terming it a 'good example for other countries" and hoping that it would spur further global involvement. Why did Russia Embrace the Taliban? Strategic Interests Russia's move is based on pragmatic reasons. Moscow considers the Taliban a ground reality and feels that talking to them is necessary in order to protect its interests in Central Asia. The Kremlin is seriously troubled by the ISKP threat, which carried out attacks in Afghanistan as well as Russia. By accepting the Taliban, Russia hopes to enhance security cooperation and counter-terrorism. Economic Opportunities Russia is also interested in huge economic benefits that can be derived from Afghanistan, especially in areas like energy, transportation, and agriculture. The Russian Foreign Ministry pointed to the promise of trade and infrastructure initiatives, which could be mutually advantageous for both nations. This economic aspect is a major reason Moscow is ready to normalise relations with the Taliban. Regional Influence By assuming the lead in recognising the Taliban, Russia becomes a central figure in deciding Afghanistan's future. This decision is most probably aimed at projecting greater Russian influence in the region and establishing a precedent for other nations to do the same. It also constitutes part of Russia's larger policy of interacting with regimes that risk being isolated by the West and thus increasing its diplomatic presence. Engagement Without Recognition: The Global Approach China has also dealt with the Taliban at multiple levels. Beijing has entertained Taliban ambassadors and permitted them to hold sway over Afghanistan's embassy in China, but not formal recognition. China is guided by economic interests, security concerns, and also a reluctance to be seen as the first major power to recognise the Taliban's controversial policies. top videos View all Other Countries Some other nations, such as Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan, have established diplomatic ties with the Taliban but stopped short of conferring formal recognition. Such engagement is usually driven by regional, economic, or security interests, but all fall short of overt diplomatic support. First Published:
India Today
4 hours ago
- India Today
Trump, Zelenskyy discuss boosting Ukraine's air defences amid Russian attacks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump held a phone call on July 4, during which they agreed to strengthen Ukraine's air defence capabilities as Russian aerial attacks escalate. The conversation followed a record-setting drone assault on Kyiv that injured at least 23 people and ignited dozens of fires across the said the two leaders had a detailed discussion on air defence systems, particularly focusing on increasing Ukraine's ability to "defend the sky." advertisementThey agreed to initiate talks between their respective teams aimed at enhancing cooperation on defence technology and airspace protection. The Ukrainian president emphasised the urgency of bolstering defences, citing intensified Russian airstrikes and battlefield activity. He also expressed readiness to pursue joint defence projects with US partners, particularly involving drone to US media reports, the call lasted about 40 minutes. Trump reportedly expressed support for Ukraine's air defence needs and promised to look into whether any U.S. weapon shipments had been conversation came just one day after Trump had what he described as a 'very disappointing' phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump said Putin showed no signs of seeking an end to the war. Despite these concerns, the Trump administration has not yet approved new aid or sanctions targeting recently paused some weapons deliveries to Ukraine, including Patriot missiles, prompting concern in Kyiv over the potential impact on its air defence. Germany has since entered discussions to purchase Patriot systems to help fill the direct peace talks between Russia and Ukraine resumed earlier this year in Istanbul, progress has been limited, with only prisoner exchanges achieved so far.- EndsMust Watch
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
Dominik Hašek calls Trump 'the weakest president' and Putin 'a criminal' after Kyiv drone attack
NHL legend Dominik Hašek says Trump enabled Putin's attack on Ukraine. (Getty Images) You don't usually expect brutal political takedowns to come from NHL legends, but Dominik Hašek just changed the game. The Hall of Fame goalie, once known for stopping slapshots, is now stopping short of calling Trump a war enabler. After Donald Trump reportedly chatted with Vladimir Putin , Russia launched over 500 drones and missiles into Ukraine's capital, injuring dozens. Hašek's response? A firestorm tweet calling Trump 'the weakest president' and accusing him of helping Putin's 'imperialist goals.' Yeah. This wasn't just shade, it was a direct hit. Dominik Hašek didn't hold back: 'Trump is doing everything he can to help Putin' The timing was too perfect and too horrifying. Just hours after Trump's phone call with Putin, Russian forces unleashed a terrifying assault on Kyiv. Buildings exploded. Children were hurt. Civilians ran for cover. And Dominik Hašek didn't stay quiet. 'The weakest president! @realDonaldTrump chatted with the biggest criminal of the 21st century, Putin, and he immediately sent more than 500 drones and ballistic missiles to the Ukrainian capital, Kiev… Trump is doing everything he can to help Putin in his imperialist goals… Despicable.' This isn't Hašek's first rodeo when it comes to Putin and politics Hašek has been one of the most vocal global athletes speaking out against Russia's invasion of Ukraine since 2022. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Our one of a kind Patented Cold Water Extraction Process Superior Ginseng Undo He's labeled the war 'imperialist,' demanded bans for Russian athletes who stay silent, and directly criticized international sports organizations for giving Putin a platform. He even called out the NHL for 'cowardice' over its continued inclusion of Russian players, saying silence equals support. He says Trump's call emboldened Putin and now kids are suffering The latest drone strike wasn't just any attack, it was one of the largest assaults on Kyiv in months. According to Ukrainian authorities, 539 drones and 11 ballistic missiles were launched, causing massive destruction and multiple injuries, including children. For Hašek, that kind of horror isn't accidental, it's the consequence of weak leadership. 'Trump has proven more than once that he is indifferent to the Ukrainian people,' Hašek wrote. 'Despicable.' Things got darker: Russian officials reportedly threatened Hašek for speaking up Earlier this year, Hašek revealed that Dmitry Medvedev, Russia's former president had allegedly sent him death threats in response to his activism. In one chilling message, Medvedev reportedly hinted that Hašek should take his own life. The Czech government took it seriously. Prime Minister Petr Fiala publicly backed Hašek, condemning the threats and offering him protection. But instead of backing down, Hašek went louder, filing formal complaints and urging the IOC and NHL to stop giving Russia a global stage. This isn't just a former athlete popping off on social media. Hašek is leading a charge demanding accountability from sports leagues, politicians, and fans. He's not trying to win popularity points. He's calling Trump 'despicable.' He's calling Putin 'the biggest criminal of the 21st century.' And he's pushing the sports world to wake up and pick a side. Also read - Carolina Hurricanes fans react to Brent Burns' retirement with emotional tributes For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here . Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
