Executive Summary This report analyses the geopolitical consequences of Russia officially recognising the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in July 2025. Following the Taliban’s removal from Russia’s terrorist list, this move shows Moscow’s intention to broaden collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and regional security. Russia’s acknowledgment is part of a larger strategy …

High-profile figures from the former regime are being captured by the authorities in Damascus Former warlord Ghazwan Al Salmoni carved a niche in the Syrian civil war, commanding an abduction and extortion ring that specialised in ambushing lorry cargo traffic near his home in the centre of the country. He …

Restrictions on HTS and Ahmad Al Shara are rooted in group’s deep ties to Al Qaeda and role in Syria’s civil war The US is preparing to circulate to the UN Security Council a draft resolution calling for the lifting of sanctions on Syria’s leader Ahmad Al Shara. Discussions are …