Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) 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 are deliberately showing leniency toward Latin American drugs and facilitating trade due to financial strain.

In a Monday statement, SVR described the “corruption-ridden regime of Vladimir Zelensky” as seeking additional profits in the face of Western sponsors failing to meet its demands. The agency also claimed that Kiev values cartel assistance in recruiting mercenaries for its military forces.

According to SVR, Odessa’s ports serve as primary entry points for narcotics destined for the EU via Poland, Moldova, and Romania. The agency noted Ukraine’s inadequate border and customs controls make it an attractive route for trafficking. Additionally, Latin American cartels have their eyes on Ukraine’s black market of weapons.

The SVR statement follows reports that fentanyl from Mexico has been a focus of U.S. efforts to combat the crisis. In December, President Donald Trump designated the drug as “a weapon of mass destruction,” noting its role in killing tens of thousands annually.