Russia

Just as in the ‘glorious’ days of Covid, a document on exit visas has suddenly appeared in Russia in recent days – likely inspired by the FSB – imposing new rules on travel to ‘hostile countries’. Travellers will only be permitted to go in tourist groups of at least 10 people, accompanied by an approved itinerary

In a new book based on an extensive series of interviews, Dmitry Travin traces the uncertain and contradictory evolution of those who came of age in Russia in the 1970s, living at the crossroads between the Soviet era and the period of opening up to the Western world.

Relations between Moscow’s eastern neighbours remain largely in limbo, as they seek to reduce their dependence without severing ties with Russia for good. Meanwhile, in Bishkek, Xi Jinping has, yet again, rejected Putin’s call to unblock the ‘Power of Siberia 2’ gas pipeline project.

The agreement on the repair of Soviet-made weapons came into effect this summer. Kabul is now one of the few opportunities for Russia to expand its influence abroad, with Tatarstan serving as a channel for economic and cultural cooperation.

Despite much wrangling over borders or cultural heritage in the face of tragedy, the people of Chechnya, Dagestan, Ingushetia and North Ossetia are coming together to search for the missing or raise funds for the victims of natural disasters. Because their shared history prevails over old grudges.

The Burmese army has deployed hundreds of troops to areas in the south that have been forcibly liberated. Villages have been burnt and the surrounding land sealed off. A Special Economic Zone (SEZ) backed by Moscow is planned for the area. A fighter jet raid struck a monastery in Sagaing, killing 14 civilians.

The taiga is burning beyond the Urals, the rivers in Tyumen and the Moscow region are full of dead fish, and there are oil spills in the Russian part of the Black Sea. Meanwhile, a large-scale investigation has identified 1,497 people accused of treason and espionage in Russia for actions linked to environmental protection.

On the anniversary of the 2008 Five-Day War, Russia has renewed its offer of “mediation” regarding Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The parties have limited political channels, but trade and transport links are fully operational. The leadership of the Georgian Dream party is aiming to rebuild bridges.

The closer we get to Russia’s parliamentary election on 20 September, the more thoroughly the authorities flaunt their authoritarianism. And the most paradoxical aspect of this story is that both the government and the opposition, including the liberals of the Yabloko party, are actively taking part in the game.

The Sea Legend Shipping Company will inaugurate the first regular container service via the Northern Sea Route. South Korea is following with a trial voyage. The thawing Arctic and the difficulties affecting traditional routes are making the arctic more attractive. But ice, costs, sanctions, and security are limiting commercial ambitions (for now).

The Russian government has approved a quota of 279,000 permits for foreign workers for 2026. Last year, more than 90,000 highly skilled immigrants were employed. Asia is the main source of skilled workers in Russia; however, very few wish to settle in the country.

With permafrost thaw reaching 70 cm in 2023, up to 80 per cent of buildings in the Arctic began to deform. The agricultural sector could benefit though, turning polar regions into a new breadbasket. Beyond the slogans, unresolved issues remain: flooding, soil degradation, and unpredictable changes.