Russia warns ISIS-K recruiting Central Asians for regional terror networks

Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has issued a stark warning regarding the growing threat posed by the Afghanistan-based Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISIS-K). Alexander Bortnikov, the FSB director, stated that the group is actively recruiting citizens from Central Asian nations and migrant workers within Russia to bolster its terror networks operating across the region.

Speaking at a meeting of security chiefs from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), Bortnikov claimed that ISIS-K's "Khorasan Branch" has intensified efforts to enlist members from other extremist organizations and individuals from Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan. He alleged that clandestine terrorist networks, complete with logistical and financial support systems, are being established in several CIS countries to facilitate future attacks.

Bortnikov further asserted that Russian and Tajik security agencies recently thwarted a terrorist cell planning "high-profile attacks." Additionally, cooperation with Uzbekistan's State Security Service reportedly prevented five terrorist attacks planned for various locations in Russia, including Moscow. The FSB director also accused ISIS-K, allied jihadist groups, and anti-Taliban factions of attempting to destabilize Afghanistan, claiming they receive "active support" from British intelligence services.

These groups, Bortnikov suggested, aim to expand their influence beyond Taliban control, particularly in northern Afghanistan, to impact security dynamics in Central Asia. He emphasized the critical importance of enhancing counterterrorism cooperation with Afghan authorities, stating that Moscow supports political stabilization in Afghanistan and improved relations between Kabul and Islamabad. "Our common security will clearly depend on peace in the Afghan-Pakistani region," Bortnikov concluded.

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Our common security will clearly depend on peace in the Afghan-Pakistani region.