Ukraine’s Latest Near Crisis: Russian Opportunism or a Harbinger of War?

On April 23, 2021, Russia “withdrew” its forces, which it had built up along its border with Ukraine. After a rather rapid escalation and then stagnation of tensions, the question remains: is Russia an opportunist, taking advantage of an “opening” it found, or is this event a real, viable threat to regional stability? Is Russia trying to start an international war or is it merely testing Western waters to see what it can reap without damaging consequences?

[ANALYSIS] Playing with the Fire of Democracy: Ukraine’s Choice of National Security over Media Pluralism

The presidential decree which unplugged three pro-Russian TV channels overnight on 2 February 2021 has been hailed by pro-Western Ukrainians as the first bold move by Ukraine President Volodymir Zelensky to counter Russian propaganda.
While the EU expressed its concerns and the US praised the decision, journalists unions condemned such an interference in the freedom of the media.
Yet, all international conventions protecting freedom of speech establish a few motives on the base of which a State can restrict such freedom and one of the most popular ones is a pressing though historically abused necessity: national security.
Well, this is is exactly the interest that Zelensky claims to protect.

The New Path for Romania on the European Chessboard

Romania’s 2025 elections mark a turning point between pro-EU liberalism and rising far-right nationalism. As digital interference and foreign influence reshape its political landscape, Romania must now decide: will it become a central player in European security or remain a pawn in broader geopolitical games?

[ARTICLE] The First Steps of the Transition Government in Syria: The Beginning of a New Era?

Syria faces a dire economic crisis, compounded by the civil war, the 2023 earthquake, and ongoing international sanctions. Ahmad al-Sharaa, has called several times for the lifting of sanctions, and for the removal of HTS from terrorist watchlists the United Nations, United States, and United Kingdom. Fortunately, there is evidence of a diplomatic shift.

A (renewed) European Union in a (renewed) global order- The EU challenges in the current global scenario

The European Union is facing an unprecedented crisis period characterised by internal as well as external challenges.
The internal cohesion of the EU is undermined by populist forces that push for a nationalist agenda and wish to either weaken the EU or to employ it as a tool to achieve their own national goals. The presence of these polarising political forces within the EU institutions represent a concrete obstacle to effective decision-making.

European Affairs: Slovakia’s Culture under the Fico Government

In Slovakia, Fico’s current government is slowly dismantling the vibrant culture of Slovakia. The alterations to the public broadcaster and the halting of funds by the Culture Minister are both moments of cultural repression. The Slovakian National Gallery and other institutions are still being harmed by discriminatory policies.

From tied hands to opportunity for reform: paths ahead to deal with the EU’s Hungary problem

A decade and a half after Viktor Orbàn rose to power, the relationship between Hungary and the European Union has reached its lowest point. The member state has been increasingly moving towards authoritarian rule and has repeatedly made use of its veto power to blackmail the EU. With financial pressure unable to change the situation, the Union needs to find alternative paths ahead to safeguard its unity and values.