Eurasian Economic Union

Global trends: Ukraine fatigue may force bargain with Russia

Europe

Since Ukraine gained independence in 1991, its relations with Russia have never been normal. Major crises are always liable to break out. The present one has lasted for almost two years and is entering a new phase that can make or break Ukraine. <i>This report is part of GIS’s “Global Trends” series, which aims to f...

Iran’s growing influence in the South Caucasus adds to already complex tensions

Russia & Central Asia

The South Caucasus, consisting of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, sits at a crucial geographical and cultural crossroads. The area has proven to be strategically important, both militarily and economically, for centuries, and Iran’s return to the world stage after decades of isolation looks set to put the region back on the front pages. ...

China is winning the new Great Game in Central Asia

Russia & Central Asia

Massive Chinese investment is flowing into Moscow’s strategic backyard. The Russian Empire, and then the Soviet Union, ruled over the various ethnic groups of Central Asia for centuries. Now Beijing is making a concerted effort to solidify economic, transport, and political links with the volatile and resource-rich region, writes GIS guest expert Brendan O’Reilly. ...

VIDEO: Why China and Russia downplay their rivalry over Central Asia

China & Northeast Asia