From Pariah to Partner? Russia’s Calculated Nod to the Taliban
Russia has become the first country to formally recognize the Taliban’s Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. What does Moscow stand to gain from this move?
Category Asia
Shinawatra’s Inherited Power Wavers Amid Protests in Thailand
Within a year of taking office, Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government is facing political instability, coalition fractures, and rising public protests amid a leaked phone scandal and mounting judicial pressure.
In Mongolia, a New Prime Minister—and Familiar Questions About Stability
Mongolia's new prime minister takes office amid public unrest. Can he bring lasting political stability to a nation weary of protests and broken promises?
What Happened to the United Front That Challenged Modi
Despite making electoral gains in 2024, India’s opposition alliance is now showing cracks. What caused this fragmentation, and what does it mean for the future of Indian democracy?
Facing Financial Strain, Pakistan Prioritizes Defense in New Budget
Despite facing severe economic challenges and rising debt, Pakistan’s 2025–26 budget increases military spending by nearly 20%, drawing public and expert concern.
Will the Thailand-Cambodia Border Dispute Boil Over?
Tensions are rising between Thailand and Cambodia after a deadly border clash. With nationalist rhetoric on the rise, will the decades-old dispute spiral into a larger crisis?
How the Escalation Between India and Pakistan Is Shaping Domestic Politics
Discover how the recent military and diplomatic escalation between India and Pakistan reshaped domestic politics in both countries—strengthening leadership narratives, influencing public opinion, and shifting electoral strategies.
Minerals, Power, and Protest: Mongolia Enters a New Political Uncertainty
Mongolia’s Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene resigns after losing a parliamentary confidence vote, exposing deep political rifts. What lies ahead for the country's fragile democracy amid rising public anger, and economic pressure.
At the Shangri-La Dialogue, a Spotlight on China’s Shadow
China’s absence from ministerial-level talks at the 2025 Shangri-La Dialogue signals a more cautious diplomatic stance amid rising regional tensions.
Seeking Order in the South China Sea, as ASEAN’s Balance Tips Toward Beijing
Philippine President Marcos Jr. urges ASEAN to fast-track the South China Sea Code of Conduct amid concerns over China’s growing sway in the regional bloc.
