In a bold move to address escalating regional security concerns, the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) recently conducted large-scale counterterrorism drills in Tajikistan, involving 1,500 troops from across its member states. The exercises, aimed at strengthening collective defense and counterterrorism capabilities, were held in response to rising militant threats from Afghanistan, heightening fears of cross-border extremist infiltration.
The drills, codenamed “Indestructible Brotherhood-2025” and “Barrier-2025,” were designed to simulate rapid response operations, including hostage rescues and neutralization of armed militant groups. A total of 1,500 troops from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Tajikistan participated, along with over 200 units of military equipment, including helicopters, drones, and armored vehicles.
CSTO Joint Staff Chief Andrey Serdyukov emphasized that the exercises were aimed at maintaining a robust defensive posture and ensuring collective security across Central Asia. “Cooperation among our member states is essential as regional threats evolve,” Serdyukov stated. He underscored the importance of joint preparedness in countering the growing challenge posed by extremist groups in the region.
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu recently highlighted the scale of the threat from Afghanistan, noting that over 23,000 international militants are currently active within the country. This alarming figure, combined with the porous borders of the region, has prompted heightened security measures in Central Asia, with local governments on alert to prevent militant infiltration.
The CSTO drills come at a time of increased international concern over Afghanistan’s security situation and its potential impact on neighboring states. Analysts believe the exercises signal both deterrence and political unity within the CSTO, reinforcing the bloc’s collective commitment to regional stability and the fight against extremism.
With the region facing heightened risks from militant groups, further joint military operations are expected in the coming months as the CSTO continues to refine its counterterrorism strategies and bolster its readiness for emerging threats.
