The European Union’s European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Addictions has warned that a Russian invasion of Ukraine could create “new vulnerabilities” in Europe for the illegal drug trade, changing smuggling routes and potentially exposing more people to drug use.

In its annual report, the European Center indicated that there have been 5,800 drug-related deaths in the European Union in the past year, noting that most of these cases are due to the toxicity of multiple drugs, which typically include combinations of opioids, illicit drugs, medications, and alcohol.

The report notes that the level of drug availability is still at a high level in the European Union, and in some cases, such as cocaine, has exceeded pre-coronavirus levels, while potent and dangerous substances are still emerging, noting that cannabis products are significantly became cheaper. According to the report, the production of synthetic drugs in Europe has increased.

The European Center, based in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, said that many people who experienced “serious psychological stress” during the conflict may become more vulnerable to drug abuse problems in the future.

He noted that drug smugglers could use alternative means to avoid areas with a heavy presence of security forces, while health services in European countries, especially those bordering Ukraine, are likely to come under great pressure as drug users, fleeing conflict need support. “Continuity of treatment, language services, housing and social support are likely to be key requirements,” he said, adding that even those who have not used drugs are at risk.

The European report also warns that the difficult financial situation in Afghanistan, which has been under Taliban control since August, could make drug money a more important source of income and lead to an increase in heroin smuggling into Europe. He said that despite the ban on the production, sale and trade of illegal drugs, poppy cultivation in Afghanistan continues.