CSTO Joint Staff Chief Warns of 'Serious Threat' from Terrorist Groups in Afghanistan to Central Asia

Andrey Serdyukov, chief of the Joint Staff of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), warned on Thursday at a press conference that the presence of multiple international extremist and terrorist groups in Afghanistan poses a direct negative impact on Central Asia's security situation and could lead to the export of terrorism to neighboring countries.

Serdyukov described the activities of these groups as a "serious threat" to the stability and security of Central Asia, increasing the risk of insecurity spreading to adjacent regions. He added that the spread of radical ideologies and drug trafficking remain major security challenges in the area.

The CSTO official also addressed the South Caucasus, stating that security conditions there are concerning due to unresolved old conflicts combined with new geopolitical challenges. He said efforts by Western countries to strengthen their influence in the region have contributed to complicating the situation.

Serdyukov emphasized that the overall security environment in the CSTO's area of responsibility remains "tense and unpredictable," with the potential for increased conflict amid ongoing international tensions.

Previously, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed concern over terrorist groups in Afghanistan during a meeting with the CSTO secretary general. Russia has recognized the Taliban but continues to criticize the presence of terrorist groups in the country, viewing it as a direct threat to its security and that of Commonwealth of Independent States countries.