Fellow Vlad Paddack Analyzes Kazakhstan’s Geopolitical Strategy for Radio Liberty
We are pleased to announce that our Fellow, Vlad Paddack, was recently featured in Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL).
In the article, titled “Toqaev Balances Relations With Putin After Landmark US-Central Asia Summit,” Vlad provides expert commentary on the recent diplomatic flurry involving Kazakh President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev, US President Donald Trump, and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Vlad argues that the recent summits in Washington and Moscow showcase Kazakhstan’s ascendance as a “middle power,” adept at balancing major global players while reinforcing its own regional leadership. He notes that while Kazakhstan remains a key logistics hub for Russia, the US-Central Asia (C5+1) summit signaled a potential shift toward broader economic partnerships.
Key Insight:
Vlad suggests that while conventional wisdom points to Russian pushback against US engagement in the region, the real friction may come from Beijing. “The key player likely to take issue with this – particularly regarding critical minerals – is China,” Vlad notes, highlighting the complexities of the Belt and Road Initiative in the current climate.
Read the full article at Radio Liberty