Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu has warned that Afghanistan remains a major security concern for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). He said terrorism and drug trafficking continue to threaten regional stability. The remarks were made during the 21st SCO Security Council secretaries’ meeting.
Shoigu claimed that between 18,000 and 23,000 militants linked to more than 20 groups are active in Afghanistan. He also estimated around 3,000 ISIS-affiliated fighters in the country. He warned that extremist networks continue to expand despite counterterrorism efforts.
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He further raised concerns about foreign fighters moving from Syria into Afghanistan. Shoigu said militants of Uyghur, Tajik, and Uzbek origin were joining regional extremist structures. He linked some of these elements to groups previously associated with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.
The Russian official also highlighted rising narcotics production, including synthetic drugs such as methamphetamine. He said more than 30 tons of methamphetamine were seized along Afghanistan’s borders in 2025. He added that millions remain involved in drug cultivation due to economic hardship.
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Moscow reiterated its concern that instability in Afghanistan could spill into Central Asia and SCO member states. Russian officials said security risks remain unresolved despite Taliban claims of improved control. The statements reflect continued regional anxiety over terrorism and organized crime networks.