Region
Central Asia
As Focus on Sanctions Evasion in Kyrgyzstan Intensifies, Government Promises Action
By Catherine Putz
As consequences loom, Kyrgyz officials have moved quickly to acknowledge, rather than deny, allegations of sanctions evasion and promise action.
The Indo-Pacific Strategy’s Missing Continental Dimension
By Naoki Nihei and Marin Ekstrom
Anxiety over the rise of China and the authoritarian threat to the liberal democratic order has driven a maritime-heavy strategy. But don’t forget about the Eurasian landmass.
Kyrgyz Court Cancels Case Against RFE/RL’s Radio Azattyk
By Catherine Putz
A settlement agreement was reportedly reached between the broadcaster and the Ministry of Culture, paving the way for Azattyk’s unblocking.
China-Europe Competition in Central Asia
By Plamen Tonchev
Could Central Asia become a battlefield between China and the West?
Madumarov’s Party Accused of Coup Plot in Kyrgyzstan
By Catherine Putz
Where some see the normal activities of an opposition party, the Kyrgyz government sees the seeds of a nefarious coup plot.
From Central Asia to Europe: What Is the Most Sustainable Transport Corridor?
By Catherine Putz
A recent European study highlighted the Central Trans-Caspian Network as the best option to connect Central Asia with Europe.
Taking Stock of Kyrgyzstan-US Relations With Amb. Lesslie Viguerie
By Catherine Putz
The Diplomat’s Managing Editor Catherine Putz had a recent conversation with U.S. Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan Lesslie Viguerie about the state of relations.
Dynamic Repression Amid Uzbekistan’s Snap Presidential Election
By Alva Omarova
The state seems to aim for branding Uzbekistan as dynamic. Its approach to free speech is anything but.
In Uzbekistan, Another Z-Artist’s Concert Canceled
By Niginakhon Saida
Is it over for Russian Z-artists in Central Asia?
A Third Term for Uzbekistan’s Mirziyoyev
By Catherine Putz
With 87 percent of the votes in a campaign devoid of genuine competition, the Uzbek president has cemented himself in power much like his predecessor.
Could Kazakhstan’s Uranium Exports to the US Increase?
By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez
If imports of Russian uranium are blocked by the U.S., Kazakhstan, already a top source, could stand to gain.
Uzbekistan’s Election Highlights Lost Hopes for Reform
By Hugh Williamson
There have been some areas of progress on human rights under Mirziyoyev but the country’s international partners should recognize that these gains have now halted and gone into reverse.