KABUL, Afghanistan — By plane, motorbike, camper van and even on bicycles, tourists are beginning to discover Afghanistan, with solo travelers and tour groups gradually venturing into a country that until recently was wracked by war.

Russia has become the first country to officially recognize the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan. In a statement on July 3, 2025, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Moscow saw strong prospects for developing ties and would continue to support Kabul in areas such as security and counterterrorism.