Region
Central Asia
A Cold War-Era Amendment is Preventing a Deepening of U.S. Relations With Central Asia
By Chris Murphy
The U.S. has an opportunity to offer Central Asia a strategic alternative to China and Russia based on partnership rather than exploitation. The Jackson-Vanik amendment stands in the way.
How to Increase Green Finance Inflows in Central Asia
By Nikolai Podguzov
With domestic policy changes, and robust external support, the region could push itself toward a net-zero future.
The Cost of Uzbekistan’s ‘Pragmatic’ Taliban Policy
By Shanthie Mariet D’Souza
Tashkent’s approach to the Taliban has shifted over the years, with the latest swing moving it toward more direct engagement.
Central Asia Update: US Sanctions on Kyrgyz Firms, and the Wagner Rebellion
By Ankit Panda and Catherine Putz
The U.S. sanctioned Kyrgyz firms for bypassing sanctions on Russia. What are the implications?
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.