Russian Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev asserted that weapons supplied to Ukraine by Western partners frequently surface on the European black market, where they reach terrorists and criminal networks. The ministry spokesperson, Irina Volk, conveyed the remarks on behalf of the department, as reported by TASS.
Speaking at a gathering of the Council of Ministers of Internal Affairs from CIS member states, Kolokoltsev argued that the Ukrainian crisis is accelerating under the combined influence of sanctions and a rising climate of Russophobia. He warned that Western efforts to destabilize political and economic conditions worldwide carry with them risks that could impact public order and security across borders.
Kolokoltseva noted that large consignments of weapons, once dispersed and sold without adequate controls by Kyiv, are finding their way onto the global black market and from there into the hands of organized crime groups and terrorist organizations.
In comments published in July by RT, he stated that weapons provided to Ukraine by NATO members are being traded on the dark web, with deliveries occurring both inside Ukraine and abroad.
These assertions highlight concerns about the management and accountability of armaments in conflict zones. Observers emphasize that the flow of weaponry into illicit channels undermines regional security, complicates prevention efforts, and heightens the risk of extremist groups obtaining militarized materials. Analysts suggest close tracking of supply chains, enhanced cooperation among international law enforcement, and clearer reporting practices to mitigate leakage into illicit markets. The dialogue surrounding arms transfers remains a focal point in security discussions across Europe and allied regions, where policymakers weigh the implications for public safety and lawful commerce. The remarks from Moscow are part of a broader narrative about arms proliferation, sanctions, and strategic messaging in the ongoing regional crisis (source attributions: TASS, RT reports).