KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul on Thursday condemned Russia’s move to formally recognize the Taliban as Afghanistan’s government, calling it a “dangerous move” that legitimizes a “brutal regime.”
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, McCaul said the Taliban has created a “devastating humanitarian crisis” since seizing power in August 2021, destroying progress on women’s rights, taking American hostages for political leverage, and carrying out public executions of individuals opposed to their “tyrannical regime.”
“This is a transparent attempt by the unholy alliance to legitimize its allies,” McCaul wrote. “I join leaders across the free world in decrying this dangerous move, which puts a rubber stamp on the Taliban’s brutal rule.”
Russia announced its decision last week, drawing widespread condemnation from US officials, UN experts, Afghan politicians, Afghan women, and rights groups. Critics say the move undermines joint efforts to pressure the Taliban on human rights, counterterrorism, and the formation of an inclusive government.
The development came just days before the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for two senior Taliban leaders, including the regime’s supreme leader, citing crimes against humanity and systematic persecution of women, girls, and political opponents.
Afghan activists, politicians, and women’s rights advocates have also denounced Russia’s recognition, warning it legitimizes Taliban oppression, fuels extremism, and violates international human rights norms.
The Taliban and China welcomed Russia’s decision. Pakistan, however, reacted cautiously, calling it a bilateral matter and saying it is not in a hurry to follow suit.
McCaul, the former chair of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee, has long been a vocal critic of the Taliban, US funding to the group, and what he views as international attempts to normalize ties with the regime.
