Instability in Central Asia

More attacks could see Russian, Chinese, and U.S. security involvement -- and competition -- in the Central Asian country increase.

After a quarter-century of isolation, Uzbekistan is increasingly open for business. Balancing against the great powers, however, is set to prove a challenge.

The country's president is leaving office after nearly 30 years in power. Plans for this moment have been in motion for a while, reducing the likelihood of a major political crisis.

With the standoff between Moscow and the West seemingly here to stay, the Kremlin is beating a path to Asia, Africa and the Americas to drum up economic and security ties.

A second military base in Kyrgyzstan would not only help Russia stem militancy but would also bolster its position as the outside power with the greatest influence in Central Asia as the U.S. floats an Afghan withdrawal.

A few hundred people rallied this week in the Kyrgyz capital against Chinese migrants and economic ties. Such resistance is likely to grow as Beijing's presence in the region expands.

The United States and its NATO allies are but one component invested in Afghanistan's future as the country finds itself once again a focal point for great power competition.

From Eastern Europe to the Caucasus and Central Asia, the areas along Russia's periphery will be central to the battle for influence between Washington and Moscow.

Tajikistan appears set for a military operation in its restive eastern region -– and that could soon attract the attentions of Russia and China.