NEW YORK — Russia has raised serious concerns about the rising influence of terrorist groups in Afghanistan, warning that their growing operational capabilities pose a direct threat to regional stability and international security.
Speaking at a UN Security Council committee briefing, Russia’s Permanent Representative Vassily Nebenzia said that militant groups, particularly Daesh, are “deliberately fueling tensions” and attempting to position themselves as an “alternative power structure” within Afghanistan.
Foreign Funding, Experienced Fighters Strengthening Daesh
Nebenzia stated that Daesh continues to receive foreign financing, enabling the group to recruit and expand. He added that many fighters now operating in Afghanistan have combat experience from Syria and Iraq, significantly increasing the group’s lethality.
The Russian envoy also warned that weapons left behind by Western forces may fall into the hands of militants, creating a heightened security risk for Afghanistan and neighboring states.
“There is a clear risk of terrorist activity spilling over to Central Asia and beyond,”
Nebenzia said.
Call for Comprehensive Counterterrorism Measures
Russia emphasized that the international community must adopt comprehensive strategies to counter terrorism, dismantle all militant networks, and prevent the use of Afghan territory for operations against any state. Moscow has repeatedly expressed concerns about the alleged presence and resurgence of extremist groups in Afghanistan since the withdrawal of foreign troops.
Taliban Rejects Claims, Insists Security Is Under Control
The Islamic Emirate, however, dismissed Russia’s warnings, stating that Afghanistan will not be allowed to be used as a launching pad for attacks against other countries. Taliban officials claim that the security situation is “fully under control” and that no foreign terrorist groups are permitted to operate in Afghan territory.
