[SPECIAL EDITION] Let’s Tune In: How the Russian Invasion in Ukraine Started
This special edition of our Let’s Tune In column explores the reasons behind the escalation of tensions between Russian and Ukraine in late February 2022.
This special edition of our Let’s Tune In column explores the reasons behind the escalation of tensions between Russian and Ukraine in late February 2022.
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?
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 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.
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.
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.
The rising competition between the Russian Federation and the European Union is evident in Moldova and the recent gas supply crisis put the lights back on in the region.
Støre’s delegation group visit to China is potentially renewing Norway’s security economic landscape but not only helping to address Oslo’s energy economic transition hurdles, highlighting their Joint Statement has profound implications beyond what many conceive.
Explore how Iran leverages digital influence operations to shape political opinions, instill public distrust and advance its foreign policy interests in the age of disinformation.
As Xi Jinping’s November visit to Brazil wrapped up, high-level talks between the two Global South giants expanded on a wide set of agreements. However, Xi’s visit also highlights a delicate and nuanced balancing game played by Brazil, fueled by domestic political struggles and the expectation of a second Trump tenure.