CSTO to strengthen Tajik–Afghan border security amid escalating clashes

The Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) is stepping up efforts to enhance security along the Tajik–Afghan border, following a series of rising clashes in the region. The decision comes as Tajikistan grapples with increasing instability at the border, exacerbated by violent incidents and the growing presence of armed groups.

On January 29, Tajik border forces engaged in a deadly firefight with suspected drug traffickers in the Khatlon Province, resulting in the deaths of three traffickers. Others managed to flee into Afghanistan. Fortunately, no casualties were reported among Tajik forces. The confrontation also led to the seizure of weapons, ammunition, and over 70 packages of illicit narcotics, including hashish and opium.

This incident underscores the intensifying security challenges along the border, where armed clashes have surged in recent months. Notably, in November, a series of attacks targeted Chinese workers in the region, killing five individuals and prompting China to suspend several infrastructure and mining projects due to safety concerns.

To address these escalating security threats, CSTO Secretary General Taalatbek Masadykov confirmed that the organization is finalizing plans to deliver advanced military equipment to bolster Tajikistan’s border defense capabilities. Masadykov stated that CSTO member states are currently coordinating the types of weapons, military gear, and technical resources to be provided, with contracts and suppliers still under negotiation.

The CSTO, which includes Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, has pledged to ensure the region’s border security is strengthened in light of the growing instability. However, no specific timeline has been set for the delivery of the new equipment.

As tensions continue to rise, the international community is closely monitoring developments, with concerns mounting over the potential spillover of violence from Afghanistan into neighboring Central Asian countries.