Russia Has Not Sent Troops to Syria
The routine deployment of a Russian tanker vessel to a Syrian port is misinterpreted as a show of force.
Eastern Europe
Beneath the Radar, Russia-Pakistan Entente Takes Shape
Wikistrat analyzes the rapprochement between two former Cold War rivals.
Rice Rules Out Syrian Intervention, Then Doesn’t
The American ambassador to the United Nations said military action would only worsen the situation but didn’t rule it out.
Russia Nearing Su-35 Fighter Contract With China
An arms sale would signify a fairly significant change in Russia’s attitude toward its southern neighbor.
Belarus, Europe Preparing Diplomatic Countermeasures
Wikistrat analyzes a row in diplomatic relations between Europe and Belarus.
Our Man in the Kremlin Wins Another Election
Considering the alternatives, the West should welcome Vladimir Putin’s return to the presidency.
Putin Rallies Against Soft Power, Humanitarian Interventions
The Russian leader claims the West uses nongovernmental organizations to undermine unfriendly regimes.
Russian State Oil Company Seeks to Bypass Ukraine
Transneft announces plans to bypass Ukraine’s transit system.
Putin Spells Out National Security Strategy
In anticipation of his reelection, Vladimir Putin unveils plans for military modernization.
Montenegro to Join Russian South Stream Project
The Russian gas pipeline is picking up momentum.
Putin Warns Russians: Après Moi, Le Déluge
The Russian leader says without him, ethnic tensions could tear the country apart.
Azerbaijan, Turkey Sign Gas Pipeline Deal
In another blow to Russian energy politics, the two nations agreed to supply European markets with Caspian Sea gas.
Putin Didn’t Suffer a Resounding Defeat
Although support for United Russia fell, Vladimir Putin is still the dominant figure in Russian politics.
Medvedev Urges Russians to “Vote for the Future”
The Russian president called on voters to elect a stable majority for the ruling party.
Russia About to Join WTO, For What?
Will America allow Russia to join the World Trade Organization if it supports tougher sanctions against Iran?