Afghanistan-Tajikistan border

Both Russia and Pakistan have reportedly urged Tajikistan and the Taliban to cool off their war of words, concerned about conflict on the border.

By virtue of geography, Dushanbe is a critical actor in the international community’s ongoing engagement with Afghanistan.

Moscow is also reported to be open to some kind of cooperation with the U.S., though far short of American bases in Central Asia.

The Taliban’s recent lightning offensive in northern Afghanistan may be a litmus test for the relevance of the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization.

Central Asian countries have begun coordinating their responses to the worsening security situation in Afghanistan. 

As the Taliban capture districts in Afghanistan’s north, Uzbek and Tajik responses to fleeing Afghan forces have varied.

As the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan begins, some suspect Washington is looking for nearby basing options.

In recent weeks, high-level Russian security and intelligence officials have made trips to Dushanbe.

Practice makes perfect, right? Tajikistan and Russia to hold counterterror drills next week.

How concerned should Tajikistan -- and by extension Central Asia -- be about renewed fighting in the Afghan borderlands?

A detailed look at the Afghan border, a discussion of dictators, and a secret report on Semipalatinsk; recommended reads.