With an exhibition glorifying North Korean troops fighting in Ukraine opening in Moscow and South Korea signing new arms deals with Poland to bolster its defenses against potential Russian aggression, Ukraine is increasingly emerging as a proxy battlefield between the two Koreas. Key takeaways: The support of the two Koreas for opposing sides in the… Continue reading Ukraine as a battlefield in an inter-Korean proxy war
This paper explores the challenges of Sino-Russian alignment to liberal international order (LIO) in the Indo-Pacific, with a focus on Southeast Asia. Rather than being based upon common interests or values, the alignment between Russian and Chinese interests is pragmatic and expedient in the context of contemporary international affairs. China is traditionally an important player… Continue reading The challenges of Sino‑Russian alignment to the liberal international order in Southeast Asia
An extended US review has cast uncertainty over the future of AUKUS, unsettling the partnership just as the United Kingdom and Australia formalize their commitments through the Geelong Treaty. Key takeaways: An ongoing review by Washington of AUKUS has unsettled the submarine pathway, reviving doubts about Washington’s willingness and capacity to follow through. The Geelong… Continue reading Testing AUKUS: America’s uncertainty, Britain’s bet, and Europe’s choices
Key takeaways: Beijing sees Moscow as its long-term strategic partner to reshape the international order, therefore has no serious intention to contradict Moscow’s interests in Ukraine. In spite of the contradictions with Beijing’s insistence on territorial sovereignty as a key principle of the international order, Beijing has provided vital economic and diplomatic support to Moscow… Continue reading Keeping Moscow onside – Beijing’s main priority in Ukraine
Belarus’ hopes of becoming a key node in China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Europe may be rekindled once Russia’s war against Ukraine comes to an end. Key takeaways: In June 2025, China and Belarus reaffirmed their strategic relationship. During President Lukashenko’s “family-style” visit to China, both leaders emphasized their “all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership” and… Continue reading A gateway or a dead end? Belarus and China’s Belt and Road Initiative
