Taliban Failing to Contain Terror Threats in Afghanistan, Warns Russia

DID Press: Afghanistan hosts approximately 23,000 terrorists, with over half originating from foreign countries, and warned that terrorist activities continue to pose a serious threat to both Afghan and regional security, reported Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The assessment identifies ISIS as the largest terrorist group in the country, with roughly 3,000 fighters primarily operating in eastern and northern Afghanistan. The report notes that ISIS seeks not only to challenge the Taliban but also to expand influence into Central Asia and establish a regional caliphate.

Other groups mentioned include Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (5,000–7,000 members), Al-Qaeda (400–1,500 members), and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (300–1,200 members). These organizations reportedly use Afghan territory for training camps and transnational terrorist networks.

The report also highlights Afghanistan’s ongoing role as a major producer of narcotics. Despite Taliban efforts to curb opium cultivation, production remains high, and the emergence of synthetic drugs such as methamphetamine has risen sharply, further destabilizing regional security.

Overall, Russia stresses that the Taliban have failed to control terrorist threats effectively, raising concerns over Afghanistan’s impact on broader Central Asian stability.