Recent Posts

Pentagon Says Increasing Military Presence Near Oman

The Defense Department Monday announced an increased presence in the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility, including an additional Navy destroyer along with fighter jets. “In response to a number of recent, alarming events in the Strait of Hormuz, the secretary of defense has ordered the deployment of the of …

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Democracy In Decline: Uzbekistan’s Recent Elections And Retreat From Reforms – Analysis

IntroductionUzbekistan is a prominent player in Central Asian politics. In the recently held general elections, the populace eagerly engaged, with approximately 87% of eligible voters voting. However, the outcome of these elections had far-reaching consequences, since it awarded President Shavkat Mirziyoyev a third term, raising concerns about the country’s democratic …

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Guns For Hire? A Season For Mercenaries – OpEd

Just after a band of mercenaries tried to oust the government in the Maldives back in 1988, I asked a Maldivian diplomat, using a familiar military catchphrase, about the strength of his country’s “standing army.” “Standing army?” the diplomat asked with mock surprise, and remarked perhaps half-jokingly, “We don’t even …

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Europe Trapped In US Self-Made Strategic Intimidation – OpEd

For a long time, the White House’s hardliners have tried to pull Europe into their conflict with China. They need this conflict to preserve their dominant position and to keep Europe more reliant on them. They use Russia’s war with Ukraine, China’s technological advancement, and their exaggerated emphasis on democratic …

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