Russia Fails to Diversify Economy Away from Energy
Vladimir Putin talks of economic reform, but his government continues to lean on oil.
Eastern Europe
Medvedev Criticizes France’s Recognition of Syrian Rebels
No government should strive to undermine another, argues the Russian premier.
Ukraine’s Ruling Party on Track to Win Election
The president’s party performed particularly well in the Russian speaking east of Ukraine.
European Shale Gas Threatens Russian Energy Position
Instead of adjusting to the shale gas revolution, Russia appears to be fighting it.
Azerbaijan’s Necessary Energy Diversification
Azerbaijan has to start thinking beyond oil partnership and develop alternative energies.
Georgia’s Saakashvili Concedes Election Defeat
The ruling party’s election defeat is a sobering verdict on Saakashvili’s nine years in office.
Heated Election Challenges Saakashvili’s Grip on Power
The opposition accuses the Georgian president’s ruling party of authoritarianism.
Iran Strike Could Destabilize Caucasus, Energy Transits
A strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities could have unintended consequences for the Caucasus.
Putin Intervenes in European-Gazprom Brawl
The Kremlin seeks to shield the energy conglomerate from an antitrust investigation.
Putin Urges More Liberal Trade, Russians Skeptical
Russians are skeptical of their president’s plans to open borders for international trade.
Ukraine Asserts Energy Independence from Russia
Ukraine snubs Russia’s Lukoil for a gas deal with ExxonMobil and Royal Dutch Shell.
Russian-Tajikistan Base Deal Revealed Prematurely
Tajikistan is said to have reached agreement with Russia for the lease of an army base.
Russian Warships on Exercise, Not to Prop Up Assad
Russia has conducted naval exercises in the Eastern Mediterranean for several years. No reason to read more into this.
Uzbekistan Turns Into American Ally in Central Asia
Wikistrat analyzes the costs and benefits of American efforts to boost ties with Uzbekistan.
To Putin’s Dismay, Russian Nationalism on the Rise
The Russian leaders worries more about his nationalist than liberal opposition.