Recent Posts

Russia and Iran Diverge in the South Caucasus

Despite some similarities in Iran’s and Russia’s approaches towards the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Tehran and Moscow have diverged in recent years regarding the Zangezur Corridor, its possible effects for Iran’s border with Armenia, and Israel’s relations with Azerbaijan. Russia’s relations with …

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BRICS Currency: Is It A Feasible Idea? – Analysis

In recent times, there has been a growing call among countries to trade in currencies apart from the US dollar due to the economic disruption caused by Western sanctions against Russia and its subsequent eviction from international dollar-trading systems like SWIFT. In April, the BRICS nations announced their plans to …

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US Chipping Away At Global Semiconductor Supply Chains – Analysis

On 7 October 2022, the US Bureau of Industry and Security issued new regulations on exports of semiconductors and certain semiconductor manufacturing equipment. The rules attempt to block Chinese access to high-end artificial intelligence chips through a combination of new controls on software, people, knowledge transfers, manufacturing equipment and US …

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Blacklisting Russia Should be a Priority for the FATF

In reply to a recent RUSI analysis, a Ukrainian MP argues that the FATF should use all measures at its disposal to respond to Russia’s aggression – including placing the country on its blacklist. This commentary was prompted by the recent publication of a RUSI article entitled ‘The Financial Action …

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Ukraine’s Counteroffensive Begins: Shall the Leopards Break Free?

Ukrainian forces are making gains, but the offensive is some way from its decisive phase; we must refrain from premature pronouncements of success or failure. Ukrainian forces have launched their long-anticipated offensive in an attempt to break through Russian defence lines to liberate the occupied territories. Ukrainian troops have broken …

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