Why Russia’s actions pose a threat well beyond its neighbours
Europeans might be focused on deterring Russia’s military might—but they also need to consider the danger of its political gamble
Russia
Putin in Kursk: The meaning of political theatre
Putin’s visit to Kursk revealed an effort to buy time and keep focused on his ultimate war goals
Freeze and thaw: USAID withdrawal and the future of Russia’s pro-European civil society
Donald Trump has frozen USAID. This is bad news for civil society organisations in the Russian democratic community, but Europe has the chance to step up its soft power influence in the eastern neighbourhood
Synch and swim: How escaping Russia’s electricity grid can strengthen Baltic energy security
The synchronisation of the Baltic states with EU electricity networks will enhance their energy security in the face of Russian threats—but further investment is needed
Moscow’s mind games: Ambiguity around Russia’s nukes aims to rattle Europe
Vladimir Putin’s rhetoric and missile strikes are part of a broader strategy of cognitive warfare, blending military power with psychological intimidation. His manipulative messaging aims to rattle NATO’s resolve and create uncertainty in Europe’s response
Romania’s election crisis: A stark warning for NATO nations on Russian meddling
Romanian institutions could have better protected the elections had they not underestimated the rise of the far right and tolerated radical and nationalist elements in their ranks
On the rocks: How the EU can keep Georgia’s European future alive
Barely a month after Georgian Dream declared victory in a contested and undemocratic election, Georgia’s European future hangs by a thread. The EU must act decisively to prevent its slide towards Moscow
Pyongyang’s power play: How the EU should respond to North Korean troops in Russia
North Korea’s troop deployment to the Russian front represents a fundamental shift in Europe’s security relations with east Asia. To confront the Moscow-Pyongyang axis, the EU should deepen its partnership with South Korea
Changing focus: How Europeans should respond to shifting Russia-Africa relations
Moscow’s actions in Africa often fail to meet the continent’s development goals, presenting European leaders with an opportunity to counter Russian influence. However, they must remain vigilant about Russia’s alliances with the global south – and particularly initiatives such as BRICS
Island hopping: Why Azerbaijan’s meddling in the Comoros should worry the EU
Baku is attempting to exploit anti-French sentiment in the Comoros, a move right out of Russia’s foreign policy playbook. Europeans should act fast to secure their Indian Ocean ally