SpecialEurasia

This report examines recent naval counter-divergence training exercises and tactical developments conducted by Russian forces in the Baltic and Black Sea regions. This report aims to provide an assessment of current naval capabilities, strategic implications, and future outlooks for the involved regions.

The recent counter-terrorism operations in Ingushetia and Adygea underscore the persistent threat of terrorism within Russia and the government’s ongoing efforts to neutralise such threats.

The Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) is nearing the final phase of its preparation for a series of joint military exercises scheduled for September and October 2024. This report aims to detail the current state of preparedness of the CSTO’s management bodies and force formations.

The Iraqi military, in collaboration with Kurdish security forces, recently executed a successful operation in Kirkuk, dismantling two Islamic State hideouts. This operation highlights the ongoing threat posed by the Islamic State despite its official defeat in 2017.

SpecialEurasia engaged in a discussion with Mairbek Vatchagaev, a historian and political analyst specialising in the North Caucasus, to acquire deeper insight into the region’s dynamics, the Kremlin’s local strategy, the developing situation, and future risks.

The recent knife attack in Solingen, Germany, underscores Islamist terrorism’s persistent threat within the country, particularly from individuals with radical convictions linked to the Islamic State, and increases the regional’s security risk.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to Kabardino-Balkaria, North Ossetia-Alania, and Chechnya underscores the strategic importance of the North Caucasus in Moscow’s domestic and foreign policy, especially in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

This report examines the content and implications of the article “Why Do Mujahideen of the Islamic State Make Rawafidh the Target of Their Operations and Turn Their Cities into Cemeteries?”, which serves as an ideological manifesto, justifying the Islamic State Wilayat Khorasan’s (ISKP) ongoing campaign of violence against Shi’a Muslims.

“Psychology of Intelligence Analysis” by Richards J. Heuer Jr. remains a vital resource for intelligence professionals, offering a deep exploration of the cognitive influences on analytical work. Although published over two decades ago, its relevance endures, making it an essential read for those involved in the field.

This report analyses recent developments in the bilateral relations between Russia and Azerbaijan, focusing on the outcomes of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s official visit to Baku and its implications for regional geopolitics.

The Abkhaz Academy of Sciences has introduced a scientific and technical program for 2024-2026 aimed at strengthening the country’s historical narrative and cultural identity. This program is significant for supporting Sukhum’s independence claims and countering Georgian territorial assertions through cultural diplomacy and international academic collaboration.

This report evaluates the implications of Taliban’s third anniversary celebrations amid persistent security threats from groups like the Islamic State Wilayat Khorasan (ISKP) and assesses the Taliban’s ability to maintain stability in Afghanistan.