Russia expresses concern over terrorism and drug trafficking in Afghanistan

KABUL: Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of the Russian Security Council, has stated that at least 23,000 members of 20 terrorist groups are operating in Afghanistan under Taliban control. He considers these groups a serious threat to the region and the world, identifying ISIS activities as Moscow’s greatest concern. However, the Taliban deny the presence of terrorist groups, particularly ISIS. Pakistan has also warned about the activities of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan, but the Taliban have not cooperated on this issue. Regarding drug trafficking, Shoigu noted that while production has decreased, trafficking remains complex and concerning. The seizure of methamphetamine in Afghanistan and neighboring countries has increased by 75%. The Taliban claim to be seriously pursuing efforts to combat the production, trafficking, and consumption of drugs, asserting that they have reduced the issue to zero. Several countries have previously warned about the rise in drug trafficking and emphasized the need for joint cooperation to address this challenge.