KAZAN / MOSCOW – Russia’s special envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, confirmed that Moscow is currently reviewing the ambassadorial nominee proposed by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan for its embassy in the Russian capital.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 16th Kazan Forum, Kabulov revealed that the interim Afghan government has nominated a diplomat to serve as ambassador in Moscow. “This nominee is currently undergoing the necessary approval procedures within Russian institutions,” Kabulov stated. “I hope that once the process is complete, an agreement will be signed.”
The move signals growing diplomatic engagement between Russia and the Islamic Emirate, even as the Afghan government continues to seek broader international recognition.
In the same interview, Kabulov addressed recent comments made by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Bagram Airbase. Trump has repeatedly suggested that Moscow may be interested in seizing control of the strategic airfield, located north of Kabul.
Kabulov dismissed the claims outright, stating: “Never, not now or at any other time, has such a plan existed. To control a base, you must first possess it; the Americans have already lost it.”
Political analyst Wahid Faqiri also weighed in on the issue, calling Trump’s remarks political posturing. “We Afghans must distinguish between serious statements and empty rhetoric,” Faqiri said. “The Russians, as we know, have no plans to take over Bagram. Donald Trump only wants to portray himself as a strong leader and blame Biden.”
Relations between Moscow and Kabul have warmed in recent months. Russia has hosted multiple meetings involving Afghan officials and representatives from neighboring countries to discuss regional security and economic cooperation.
Previously, Russia’s foreign minister also underscored that Moscow — along with several regional powers — maintains a unified stance opposing any renewed presence of U.S. military forces in Afghanistan.
The ongoing ambassadorial review, combined with public affirmations of diplomatic cooperation, suggests a growing alignment between Russia and the Islamic Emirate, even as questions about the legitimacy and recognition of Afghanistan’s interim government remain unresolved on the international stage.
