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Tajik Taliban Commanders Arrested in Afghanistan Underline the Movement’s Internal Frictions
This report examines the recent arrests of ethnic Tajik Taliban commanders in northern Afghanistan, highlighting emerging internal rifts within the movement, particularly between the Kandahar leadership and the Haqqani Network, and potential instability in historically restive regions, such as Takhar and Badakhshan.
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Russia-Central Asia Relations Following the Almaty Ministerial Meeting
The eighth ministerial meeting between Russia and the five Central Asian states, held in Almaty on April 11, 2025, highlights Moscow’s ongoing efforts to consolidate strategic influence across its southern periphery. This report wants to assess the status of Russia-Central Asia relations and Moscow’s strategy to exploit multilateralism and security cooperation to influence Central Asian…
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OSINT: Useful Practices for Deep and Dark Web Intelligence Collection
This report explains the useful ways to gather information from the deep and dark web, focusing on how this helps fight terrorism and cybercrime. It addresses definitions, strategic considerations, legal frameworks, operational security, and technical tools utilised in dark web investigations.
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San Marino. Afghanistan: Women and Human Rights under the Taliban Regime – Roundtable Event in Domagnano on 10 April 2025
On 10 April 2025, the Republic of San Marino will host a significant event dedicated to the discussion of human rights, focusing on the condition of women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. The association Libera San Marino, within the framework of the “Libera la Cultura” (Free the Culture) project, organised the roundtable scheduled to begin…
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Unconfirmed CIA Visit in Afghanistan Increased Pressure on the Taliban
Recent reports suggest that a US Air Force C-17A transport aircraft landed at Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan for the first time since the 2021 withdrawal. The aircraft allegedly carried senior Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) personnel, with speculation surrounding a visit by Deputy Director John Ratcliffe.
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Intelligence Solutions and Geopolitics: Interview with Max Taylor
To explore the critical role of intelligence and geopolitics in contemporary security environments, SpecialEurasia met with Max Taylor, the Intelligence Manager at Intelligence Fusion.
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Kazakhstan and Turkey’s Growing Role in Afghanistan Through Agricultural and Humanitarian Cooperation
Kazakhstan and Turkey are increasingly active in Afghanistan, leveraging humanitarian, agricultural, and diplomatic support to secure regional influence. Astana’s participation in initiatives like the Islamic Organisation for Food Security (IOFS), coupled with Ankara’s expansion through TIKA, is reshaping the region’s geopolitical landscape.
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Uzbekistan’s Military Modernisation: AI, UAVs, and Robotic Systems
This report aims to analyse the recent developments regarding Uzbekistan’s military modernisation efforts, as outlined in the presidential address on February 21st, 2025. The country is considering how to incorporate new technologies, such as drones, artificial intelligence, and automated control systems, into its military forces.
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Security and Terrorism in the North Caucasus: Interview with Mark Youngman
SpecialEurasia met with Mark Youngman to discuss his recent report “Terrorism and counterterrorism in the North Caucasus: 2024 trends” considering his vast experience as an open-source intelligence (OSINT) analyst and independent researcher.
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Afghanistan: the Killing of a Chinese Worker Might Compromise the Sino-Taliban Relations
This report evaluates the geopolitical and security implications of the recent killing of a Chinese worker in Afghanistan, focusing specifically on the Sino-Taliban relationship. The analysis considers the role of militant groups operating across the border and forecasts potential outcomes that could affect China’s strategic objectives in Central Asia and its broader regional influence.
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15 Years of the North Caucasus Federal District: An Analysis of Achievements and Challenges
This report aims at underlining the North Caucasus Federal District’s positive trends and the local challenges which might undermine regional stability and the Kremlin’s efforts to improve the socioeconomic conditions.
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Sayfiddin Tajibayev’s Role in the Syrian Defence Apparatus: Repercussions for Tajikistan and Central Asia
Sayfiddin Tajibayev’s appointment to a senior position in the Syrian Ministry of Defence highlights a serious security risk to Tajikistan and Central Asia. This development could catalyse the movement of more extremists from Central Asia to Syria, facilitating the establishment of new foreign fighter networks and training centres.
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Assessing Russia’s Strategic Realignment in Syria and the Middle East: Insights from Alexander Hoffmann
SpecialEurasia had an exclusive conversation with Alexander Hoffmann, a Military Adviser from the Russian Federation. His analysis sheds light on the Kremlin’s military, diplomatic, and strategic recalibrations, offering a comprehensive perspective on Russia’s current and future approach in Syria and the broader Middle East.
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Islamic State Narrative on Recent Events in Syria: Analysis of al-Naba Issue 473
The Islamic State has utilised the recent collapse of the Assad regime and the rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) to intensify its ideological campaign. Through its latest issue of al-Naba (issue 473), released in recent days, the group has disseminated a narrative portraying these events as betrayals of Islamic principles and evidence of external…