Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stark warning over the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, describing it as a growing threat to the member states of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). Addressing a recent high-level gathering, Putin underscored that the ongoing instability in Afghanistan is no longer a localized issue but a pressing regional security challenge that could destabilize Central Asia and beyond.
The CSTO, which comprises Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Armenia, is tasked with safeguarding its members from external threats. President Putin emphasized that the organization’s security is increasingly imperiled by the resurgence of extremist elements in Afghanistan. Drawing attention to the historical presence of terrorist groups such as ISIS and others in the country, he warned that the current state of chaos could serve once again as fertile ground for these groups to regroup and expand their operations across CSTO borders.
“Terrorist groups have previously used Afghan territory as a launching pad to infiltrate neighboring CSTO countries, posing grave risks to our collective security,” Putin cautioned. “Today, these risks are escalating, and we must respond with unity and resolve.”
Highlighting the urgency of the matter, Putin called for enhanced coordination among CSTO member states. He proposed bolstering border security, deepening intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and conducting joint military drills to deter and respond to potential threats. “Our strength lies in our unity. By consolidating our defensive measures, we can effectively prevent extremist spillover into our territories,” he stated.
In addition to intra-CSTO cooperation, Putin stressed the need for wider regional collaboration. He advocated for closer engagement with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and other multilateral platforms to ensure a comprehensive approach to regional stability. “Afghanistan’s future is a regional concern. No single nation can shoulder this responsibility alone,” he added.
The Russian leader also reiterated his longstanding position that the establishment of an inclusive government in Afghanistan is essential to reducing the threat posed by extremist groups. He called on the international community to play a proactive role in supporting Afghan reconciliation and reconstruction efforts.
“A stable and representative Afghan government is not just desirable — it is necessary for regional peace. The global community must contribute constructively to this goal,” Putin urged.
President Putin’s remarks serve as a pointed reminder of the interconnected security dynamics in Eurasia. As instability in Afghanistan continues to ripple across borders, the CSTO’s unified response and international cooperation will be critical in preventing the spread of extremism and safeguarding regional peace.
