Russia Warns of Rising Threats from Islamic State and al Qaeda

Russia has warned that threats from the Islamic State and al Qaeda are increasing across the region, with the risk of weapons and ammunition spreading from conflict zones to militant groups also growing.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova made the remarks while referencing the deadly Crocus City Hall attack near Moscow two years ago. She confirmed that four Tajik nationals convicted over the assault have been sentenced to life in prison.

Zakharova said Moscow supports stronger international counterterrorism coordination under the United Nations. She called for deeper security cooperation with partners in regional organizations including the CSTO, BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

The spokesperson blamed Western intervention in countries such as Iraq, Libya, Syria and Afghanistan for fueling the rise of militancy and weakening global counterterrorism efforts.

The warning comes as insecurity in Afghanistan remains a major regional concern, with militant threats, border tensions and political isolation continuing to shape the country’s fragile security environment.

Pakistan and the Taliban have been engaged in escalating clashes, with Islamabad accusing Afghan territory of sheltering Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan fighters. The Taliban deny the claim and say Pakistan is using Afghanistan to deflect from its own security failures. Pakistan has carried out cross-border strikes in response.

These growing tensions have raised fears that Afghanistan could again become a wider arena for regional militancy, proxy confrontation and cross-border instability. Russia’s statement underscores how Afghanistan’s unresolved security challenges affect the broader region.