Russia’s Shoigu accuses west of ‘colonial’ tactics, slams Europe’s backing of 'terrorist Ukraine'

At a joint CSTO and CIS meeting, Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu accused the West of militarising Europe and backing Ukraine’s “terrorist regime,” while warning of interference in post-Soviet elections. Shoigu stressed joint counter-extremism measures and highlighted Afghanistan’s dual role—as both a potential regional partner and a source of militant threats. CSTO Secretary-General Imangali Tasmagambetov cited Western sanctions and rising AI-based military risks, while CIS Deputy Secretary-General Denis Trefilov said a new multipolar world order is emerging. Shoigu concluded that Western states cling to a “colonial mindset,” urging respect for sovereignty and indivisible security.