Up to 23,000 militants in Afghanistan; 7,000 tied to TTP: Russia

WEB DESK: The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has described Afghanistan’s security and political situation as “still complex,” warning that terrorist networks continue to operate across the country.

According to the ministry, the Afghan territory hosts between 20,000 and 23,000 militants, with more than half being foreign fighters. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) alone is reported to have 5,000 to 7,000 militants in Afghanistan, focusing on attacks in Pakistan. Moscow cautioned that TTP activities are increasing tensions in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.

Presence of ISIS-K and Al-Qaeda training centres

The ministry highlighted that the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISIS-K) has around 3,000 fighters in Afghanistan, while Al-Qaeda maintains active training centres across several provinces, including Ghazni, Laghman, Kunar, Nangarhar, and Nuristan. Russian officials noted that a January attack on a Chinese restaurant in Kabul underscores the continuing presence of ISIS in the capital. They added that ISIS-K aims to expand its so-called caliphate into Central Asia over the long term.

Rising narcotics and regional impact

Russia also warned of a sharp increase in the smuggling of synthetic drugs, particularly methamphetamine, originating from Afghanistan. The ministry emphasised that the country’s persistent instability is having a direct impact on regional peace and security, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts to address both militant networks and illicit activities emanating from Afghan territory.