It’s a region Russia regards as its own backyard - but the European Union may be looking to strengthen its influence in Central Asia. The EU’s top diplomat Josep Borrell recently met regional leaders in Tajikistan and stressed their strategic importance to Europe. Around the same time, Vladimir Putin hosted a similar gathering in Russia. But with the distraction of the war in Ukraine, is he losing his grip on a traditional sphere of influence?

Guests:

Paul Stroski

Senior Fellow at Carnegie’s Russia and Eurasia Program

Emil Avdaliani

Professor of International Relations at European University and Director of Middle East Studies at Geocas

Bruce Panier

Journalist and Political Analyst

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