The Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation, known by its Russian acronym FSVTS, has voiced concern that Russian weapons re-exported illegally into Ukraine frequently end up on the black market. The agency’s remarks were reported by TASS, citing the FSMTC press center.
Officials emphasize that weak control over the flow of Western arms, together with weapons diverted through illicit channels, remains a major worry. The publication notes that such gaps enable weapons to circulate beyond intended destinations, undermining regional security and potentially fueling destabilizing activities.
The FSVTS also stated that the black market for military equipment contributes to the spread of international terrorism and extremism, underscoring the broader global risks associated with unregulated arms movements.
Simultaneously, the press center pointed to a pragmatic stance among partner nations, many of whom are convinced of the reliability and effectiveness of Russian weapons. The agency argues that these perceptions influence ongoing defense exchanges and cooperation, even as controls are tightened where possible.
Former FSMTC Director Dmitry Shugaev has noted growing international interest in Russian weapons. He indicated that Russia collaborates with more than 100 states, highlighting a broad network of defense relationships and the ongoing appeal of Russia’s arms programs on the global stage.