Russia has become the first country in the world to formally recognize Afghanistan's Taliban government. This improves the radical group's standing on the world stage, and puts pressure on the West to follow suit.

Russia has become the first country to formally recognise the Taliban government in Afghanistan, sparking outrage from opposition figures. The decision marks a major milestone for the Taliban almost four years after they swept into Kabul and took power.

From China to Iran, several countries have already been engaging with the Taliban. Experts say they could be next.