Central Asia

An eye witness to the violence during last week’s Kyrgyz uprising shares what he saw with photojournalist Hugh Bohane.

NATO wants Afghan forces to be able to take more responsibility. David Axe reports that there’s reason for worry, and for hope.

As Russia and China vie for access to its minerals, Mongolia has turned to the US as a counterweight. But is its democracy safe?

As villages in Afghanistan turn to private militias for security, Sanjay Kumar asks if such outfits mark a return to warlordism.

The London conference on Afghanistan’s future was wishful thinking. For real stability, look to China, India, Russia–and Iran.

The Diplomat speaks with Fabrice Pothier, director of Carnegie Europe, about the security situation in Afghanistan, talking with the Taliban and the prospects for stability once US-led forces withdraw.

As US-led forces engage in a major offensive in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province, commentators in Pakistan are still taking stock of the London conference and what it could mean for the role their country plays in their neighbour’s stability. Mustafa Qadri reports that many believe the road to such stability and security will inevitably run through Pakistan–and to the Taliban.

After taking a backseat to the United States and Russia in Central Asia since the collapse of the Soviet Union, China is finally making its mark in the region, says Joshua Kucera. But while the three powers vie for influence, it could be the 'stans' that are playing the wiliest game of all.

If the London Conference on Afghanistan held last week demonstrated anything, it is that it’s only a matter of time until India loses whatever strategic leverage it previously enjoyed compared with Pakistan in the country.

The Diplomat speaks with leading Afghanistan commentator Juan Cole, author of the Informed Comment blog, about the recent election, the abandoned run-off and the future of US forces in the country.

Award-winning photojournalist Stephen Dupont reminisces about his life on the frontline in Afghanistan.

Harriet Riley reports from St Petersburg on the link between badly dubbed Western movies and an award-winning human rights activist