Afghanistan remains a hub of terrorism, narcotics threats: Russian security chief

In a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges emanating from the neighborhood, Russia has reiterated that Afghanistan remains a hub of global terrorism and cross-border narcotics trafficking, severely threatening the stability of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) region

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 15th May, 2026) In a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges emanating from the neighborhood, Russia has reiterated that Afghanistan remains a hub of global terrorism and cross-border narcotics trafficking, severely threatening the stability of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) region.

According to reports by the Russian news Agency TASS and Afghan media outlet Amaaj News, Secretary of the Russian Security Council Sergei Shoigu raised these alarming concerns while addressing the 21st Meeting of the Secretaries of the SCO Security Councils.

Shoigu highlighted that between 18,000 and 23,000 terrorists, affiliated with more than 20 separate militant outfits, are actively operating on Afghan soil. Despite the Taliban's counterterrorism claims, regional security risks remain heavily unresolved.

The Russian security chief highlighted that the Taliban are engaged in armed conflict with ISIS, which currently maintains a dangerous force of around 3,000 fighters inside Afghanistan.

Underscoring the growing trans-national threat, Shoigu warned of a volatile influx of foreign fighters, including Uyghur, Tajik, and Uzbek militants, moving from Syria into Afghanistan. These elements are reportedly linked to factions formerly associated with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.

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Beyond the terror infrastructure, the Russian Security Council Secretary expressed deep concern over Afghanistan's burgeoning role as a major producer of synthetic drugs.

Since the Taliban returned to power, the production of methamphetamine has rapidly increased due to severe economic conditions, involving nearly four million local people in narcotics cultivation. More than 30 tons of methamphetamine along Afghanistan’s borders with neighboring countries was seized in 2025 alone.

Russian statements indicated continued focus on preventing security spillover from Afghanistan into Central Asia and wider SCO region. These reflect growing Russian concerns that Afghanistan continues to face persistent threats from transnational militant organizations and extremist networks.

The remarks also highlighted Moscow’s assessment that regional security risks linked to Afghanistan remain unresolved despite Taliban counterterrorism claims.

Turning to broader regional conflicts, Shoigu stressed that all necessary measures must be taken to prevent the resumption of armed confrontation around Iran to pave the way for a new regional security architecture. On the conflict over Ukraine, he reiterated that sustainable peace was only achievable if all underlying causes were thoroughly addressed.