Expanding Russia-South Africa relations

CWA # 941

NIAS AFRICA WEEKLY

Expanding Russia-South Africa relations

NIAS Africa Team
4 April 2023

Photo Source: Sergei Chirikov, pool via AP

Africa Weekly #57&58, Vol. 2, No.13&14

4 April 2023

IN FOCUS

Russia and South Africa: Bilateral relations are expanding. Four reasons why
Expanding Russia-South Africa relations seems to be a scramble for influence from both sides. For South Africa, Russia has become an evident partner in terms of military and economy. For Russia, despite western sanctions, key strategic alliances remain in place.

by Anu Maria Joseph

On 30 March, South Africa hosted the 17th South Africa-Russia Joint Inter-Governmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation in the capital, Pretoria. South Africa’s International Relations and Cooperation Minister Naledi Pandor said that the government has no plan to break ties with Russia at the demand of other countries. She said: “There are some who don’t wish us to have relations with old historical friends; We have made it clear that Russia is a friend. We have had a cooperative partnership for many years. While we are friends with many all over the world, we cannot become sudden enemies at the demand of others.”

Russia’s Natural Resources and Environment Minister Alexander Kozlov stated: “Undoubtedly, the unprecedented sanctions against Russia have a negative impact on opportunities for trade growth. Under these conditions, it is necessary to come up with new forms of cooperation in the financial sector… We are willing to consider creating an ambulance service in South Africa equipped with Mi-8/Mi-17 helicopters as a pilot project. RUSAL is interested in supplying aluminium foil produced in Russia, which has a low carbon footprint. We know that in South Africa there is a high demand for this product in many industries.”

South Africa has long-standing relations with Russia, forged since the struggle against apartheid. Since then, bilateral relations have grown significantly, and Russia has been a significant actor in supplying military equipment to the country. During 17-27 February, South Africa conducted joint military drills with Russia and China. According to the Russian Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, bilateral trade between the countries increased by 16.4 per cent in 2022 reaching USD 1.3 billion.

Russian energy company, Unigreen Energy, has initiated a solar farm project with a capacity of 115 MW which is scheduled to begin production in 2024. South Africa-Russia shipping exports have also restarted after 30 years. Besides, Russian supermarkets are filled with South African alternatives as Russian imports collapsed amid the war.

1. South Africa’s pro-Russian stance on the Ukraine war
Along with 34 other countries it abstained from voting at the UN, condemning Russia’s intervention in Ukraine. It insisted on not taking sides and criticized the West for selective condemnation of Russia, ignoring other acts of aggression including the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territory. They conveyed that the only path to peace is through dialogue and diplomacy and commitment to the principles of the UN charter to end international disputes by peaceful means.

2. Despite the divided public opinion within South Africa
Public response to the country's stance on Russia is divided. The majority of supporters of the African National Congress (ANC) agree with the government's choice. The Democratic Alliance, the main opposition party, has been critical of the government's neutral stance and has been calling to side with Ukraine. John Steinnhuisen, leader of the party said: “We are already involved in this war; our government can't be seen to be supporting Russia’s aggression; let’s put the country before party politics and think what this war will mean to us and what will be its impact on our economy.” South Africa’s Nobel prize winner Desmond Tutu criticized the naval exercises as “disgraceful” saying: “Tantamount to a declaration that SA is joining the war against Ukraine.”

3. International criticism
In February, the US condemned the decision to hold the joint military drills saying that it would appear as a compromise to South Africa’s neutrality towards war in Ukraine. The US has warned South Africa against assisting Russia to evade sanctions. It has threatened the country of rolling back aid funding or trade privileges to impose sanctions. The EU raised its concern about SA “moving further away from a nonalignment position.”

4. Rising Russian presence in the African continent
Russia’s growing influence in the continent was evident after France-West Africa relations deteriorated. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited Africa for the second time ever since the beginning of the war. Russia has taken the opportunity to fill the void that France has left in Mali and Burkina Faso. Russia is successfully trying to build the narrative as an anti-colonial power. In 2023, Burkina Faso Prime Minister Paul Thieba described Russia as a “reasonable choice.” However, the west has raised allegations against Russia’s Wagner Group for committing human rights atrocities in Africa.

What does it mean? and what is next?
First, expanding Russia-South Africa relations seems to be a scramble for influence from both sides. For South Africa, Russia has become an evident partner in terms of military and economy. For Russia, despite western sanctions, key strategic alliances remain in place.

Second, though South Africa’s stance is often criticized for drifting towards pro-Russia, it has maintained relations with other western actors including the US. However, the cynical public response will be a significant challenge for the ANC government which is preparing for general elections in 2024. Besides, threats from the west will pose a significant challenge to the economy which is already struggling with a rampant power crisis and youth unemployment.

Third, increasing Russian presence in the continent is no more a speculation but a fact. Though international actors claim Russia is committing human rights atrocities in the continent, the extent and nature of the Russian footprints need close contemplation. In fact, 15 out of 34 countries which abstained from voting against Russia at the UN were African countries. Increasing competition for footprints in Africa has raised the strategic and geopolitical significance of the continent.

Note: Part of this commentary has been previously published as part of The World This Week.

AFRICA IN BRIEF
22 MARCH-4 APRIL
By Anu Maria Joseph

TUNISIA
US says IMF deal critical
On 22 March, the US said that it is significant for Tunisia to reach a deal with the IMF amid a worsening economic crisis. US Secretary of State Antony Bliken said: “The most critical thing they can do on the economic side is actually get an IMF agreement.” He added: “We would strongly encourage them to do that because the economy risks falling off the deep end.” The IMF guaranteed a USD two billion loan for Tunisia upon the demand for political reforms in the country. (“Tunisia IMF deal 'critical' US says - AFP,” BBC, 22 March 2023)

SUDAN
Begins talks to merge army factions
On 27 March, military and civilian political leaders began talks to bring the government-backed militia, the RSF, under the authority of the army. The talks were part of the agreement signed in December agreeing for a return of civilian democratic rule. Military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who seized power through a coup said that he wanted to end the armed forces supporting dictatorial governments in Sudan. (“Sudan begins talks to bring army factions together,” BBC, 27 March 2023)

KENYA
One protester killed in clashes with security forces
On 27 March, one of the protesters was shot dead in Kenya’s western city of Kisumu after the protests turned violent. Clashes were also reported between the protesters and the police in informal settlements in Nairobi. Deployment of security forces to quell the protests has inflamed the tensions. The protests have been going on under the leadership of Raila Odinga against the rising cost of living and what the opposition mention as ‘illegal presidency’. (“One shot dead during Kenyan protests,” BBC, 27 March 2023)

AU calls for calm after the protests turned violent
On 28 March, the African Union appealed for calm and called for dialogue in Kenya after the two-week long protests turned violent and left three people dead. AU Chairperson Maoussa Faki urged: "Stakeholders to exercise calm and engage in dialogue to address any differences.” He stated: "The Chairperson reiterates the total solidarity with and support to the government and the people of Kenya's efforts working towards national unity, peace and stability in the country.” The protests have been led by the opposition leader Raila Odinga against rising cost of living and what the opposition describe as “illegitimate presidency”. (“African Union appeals for calm after Kenya protests,” BBC, 28 March 2023)

US urges to refrain from violence during the protests
On 29 March, the US urged all political sides and security forces in Kenya to refrain from violence during the protests. Deputy spokesperson for the US Department of State Vendant Patel said: “We encourage political leaders, protesters and all parties to refrain from violence and rhetoric that could incite violence; We call on government security forces to act with restraint while protecting public safety and property." The protests led by opposition leader Raila Odinga against rising cost of living, turned violent leading to the death of at least three people across the country. (“US urges restraint over Kenya protests,” BBC, 29 March 2023)

Igad praises Ruto and Odinga agreeing to hold talks
On 3 April, East African bloc, Igad, praised Kenyan President Willam Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga for agreeing to hold talks to end the protests which have been going on for the past two weeks. Igad Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu stated that the decision would help “resolve differences on national issues through peaceful means and preserve Kenya’s unity and constitutional order.” The protests were going on against rising cost of living and electoral reforms. On 2 April, Odinga called off the protests after Ruto agreed to hold talks. (“Protests: Kenyan leaders commended for agreeing to talks,” BBC, 3 April 2023)

Aiming to launch its first earth observation satellite
On 4 April, BBC reported on Kenya preparing to launch its first earth observation satellite, which it described as a landmark achievement in the country’s space sector. Nation-1 or Taifa-1 in Swahili, is scheduled to be launched next week from the Vandenberg Space Force in California. The Kenyan Space Agency and the Defence Ministry in a joint statement said that the satellite is designed to provide data for use in agriculture, food security and environmental management. The statement added that it was “fully designed and developed” by Kenyan engineers in partnership with a Bulgarian aerospace manufacturer. (“Kenya to launch its first earth observation satellite,” BBC, 4 April 2023)

ETHIOPIA
TPLF removed from the terror list
On22 March, the Ethiopian Parliament voted to remove Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) from the country's terror blacklist. The decision comes four months after the group signed a ceasefire agreement with the federal government ending the two years of conflict. (“Ethiopia removes ‘terrorist’ tag from Tigray regional party,” Al Jazeera, 22 March 2023)

EU call for a successful implementation of ceasefire in Tigray to normalise ties
On 4 April, the European Union said that the Ethiopian government will have to carry out successful efforts for the implementation of the ceasefire agreement signed in Tigray to normalise its relations with the country. The EU foreign policy chief, Josep Borrel said that the progress in Tigray is a rare example of good news in the world today. The EU had suspended budgetary support to Ethiopia citing human rights abuses after the conflict broke out in November 2020. Earlier this year, EU officials demanded accountability for the widespread abuses committed by the warring parties during the conflict. (“Tigray success vital to restore Ethiopia-Europe ties - EU,” BBC, 4 April 2023)

Prosecutors to drop charges against the TPLF leaders
On 30 March, prosecutors in Ethiopia said that they are dropping criminal charges against senior civil and military leaders of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). The same day, the Ministry of Justice stated that conflict-related cases would be seen “in the context of transitional justice.'' This is the latest development after the federal government signed a peace agreement in Tigray in November 2022, ending the two-year conflict. (“Ethiopia prosecutors drop charges against TPLF leaders,” BBC, 30 March 2023)

Peace deal in Tigray a “positive step”, says prime minister
On 28 March, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called the peace deal signed between the Tigray rebels and the government as “a positive step” and said that his government would also sit with other armed groups to resolve tensions. He was addressing the members of the parliament after a number of them raised concerns about growing tensions in other parts of the country. Abiy responded that “a lot more” is to be done to achieve complete peace in the country’s north. “It takes time to heal; Peace, much like war, needs bravery.” (“Abiy hails peace deal, to talk to other armed groups,” BBC, 28 March 2023)

PM appoints TPLF spokesperson as interim president in Tigray
On 23 March, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed appointed Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) spokesperson Getachew Reda as the president of the newly established interim administration in Tigray. The decision is a significant part of the implementation of the peace deal signed between TPLF and the federal government. The interim regional administration will be in place until elections are held under the supervision of the electoral commission. (“Ethiopia PM appoints TPLF spokesman as Tigray president,” BBC, 23 March 2023)

SOMALIA
Water crisis “far from over,” says Unicef
On 22 March, Unicef told BBC’s Newsday radio programme that Somalia’s water crisis is “far from over” and more than thousand people are in dire condition due to the severe drought. A recent joint report by the Somali government and the UN found that nearly 43,000 people in the country died from the drought in 2022, among which half were children under the age of five. The report said that from January to June this year a further 25,000 people could die. (“Somalia water crisis 'far from over' - Unicef, BBC, 22 March 2023)

UGANDA
US and EU raise concern on the bill against homosexuals
On 23 March, the US warned Uganda of possible economic “repercussions” over the new bill to crack down on homosexual activities. US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said: “We would have to take a look at whether or not there might be repercussions that we would have to take, perhaps in an economic way, should this law actually get passed and enacted.” The European Union has also raised concern about the bill. It said: “The European Union will continue engaging with the Ugandan authorities and civil society to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity, are treated equally, with dignity and respect.” (“US should respect Ugandan sovereignty over anti-gay bill,” BBC, 23 March 2023)

GHANA
Anti-gay bill modified, says president
On 28 March, Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo said that the anti-gay bill has been “modified” following his government’s intervention. He was speaking at a joint news conference with the visiting US Vice-President Kamala Harris. He said: “My understanding … is that substantial elements of the bill have already been modified as a result of the intervention of the attorney general.” Harris commented that she had addressed the issue with President Akufo-Addo and that the US considers the issue as a matter of human rights. (“Ghana's anti-gay bill modified, president says,” BBC, 28 March 2023)

SOUTH AFRICA
Government to discuss arrest warrant on Putin ahead of BRICS conference
On 23 March, South Africa’s Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor said that the government will have to discuss the arrest warrant on Russian President Vladimir Putin issued by the International Criminal court (ICC) before considering any action. Putin is scheduled to travel to South Africa in August as part of the BRICS meeting. Pandor stated: “South Africa will have to look at existing provisions of our legislation. We also will have to have a discussion as cabinet, as well as with our colleagues in Russia, and really determine the way forward.” (“SA to consult Russia over Putin's arrest warrant,” BBC, 23 March 2023)

Government workers accept 7.5 per cent pay rise
On 31 March, civil servants in South Africa accepted the government’s decision for a 7.5 per cent pay rise. The pay rise will be implemented from 1 April. The decision comes after public servants went on strike demanding a 10 per cent pay rise. The acting deputy general manager of the Public Servants Association (PSA) said: “Although it's not all that we wanted but we believe that the 7.5 per cent will make much better economic sense to our members given the hardships they find themselves in.” (“South Africa civil servants accept new pay deal,” BBC, 31 March 2023)

Opposition vows to protect Putin from ICC arrest
On 24 March, South Africa’s opposition minority party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin is welcome to visit Pretoria despite the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court. EFF leader Julius Malema said that Putin will not be arrested while in South Africa, a country where Russia “played a huge role to support the struggle for freedom.” He stated: “Putin is welcomed here. No one is going to arrest Putin. If need be, we will go and fetch Putin from the airport to his meetings. He will address, finish all his meetings, and we will take him back to the airport.” He added: “we know our friends. We know the people who liberated us. We know the people who supported us.” (“SA opposition vows to 'protect' Putin from ICC arrest,” BBC, 24 March 2023)

John Steenhuisen re-elected as the leader of the Democratic Alliance
On 3 April, John Steenhuisen was re-elected as the leader of South Africa’s main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance. He secured 83 per cent of the votes against his opponent Mpho Phalatse who obtained 17 per cent of votes. Steenhuisen will be leading the party for the next three years. In his acceptance speech, he said that his party will work with other “like minded parties” ahead of the 2024 elections. (“Steenhuisen re-elected SA's main opposition leader,” BBC, 3 April 2023)

LESOTHO
MPs to debate on reclaiming parts of South Africa
On 29 March, Lesotho’s parliament is expected to discuss the motion to reclaim parts of South Africa. According to parliament’s order paper, an opposition MP wants the law makers to “declare the whole of the Free State, parts of the Northern Cape, parts of the Eastern Cape, parts of Mpumalanga and parts of KwaZulu-Natal as part of Lesotho's territory." (“Lesotho MPs to debate territorial claim to parts of SA,” BBC, 29 March 2023)

TANZANIA
US Vice-President announces USD 560 million to boost trade
On 31 March, US Vice-President Kamala Harris, during her visit to Tanzania, lauded the country’s reforms aimed at strengthening democracy. Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan described the visit as a milestone for the country. Harris began her visit to Africa in Ghana and will conclude in Zambia. She announced USD 560 million to Tanzania, supporting boosting trade and strengthening democracy. She described the visit as a meaningful step that helped to expand the partnership between the two countries. (“US vice-president lauds Tanzania democracy reforms,” BBC, 31 March 2023)

BURKINA FASO
At least 14 people killed in jihadist attack
On 24 March, security officials in Burkina Faso said that jihadist insurgents killed nearly 14 people, including four soldiers, near the northern city of Kaya. The attack happened on the same day interim leader Captain Ibrahim Traore visited the region. The jihadists targeted a unit of soldiers and defence volunteers who were tasked with repairing the water supply in the town of Zorkoum. (“Burkinabe militants kill 14 in attack in north,” BBC, 24 March 2023)

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO
17 people executed by the Codeco militia
On 27 March, at least 17 people who were captured by the Codeco militia group were executed in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. UN-sponsored Radio Okapi reported that the victims were travellers heading to Mungwalu, in Ituri province. They were abducted after three members of the militia group were killed in a clash with a rival group. The authorities have not yet commented on the attack. (“Militia execute 17 hostages in DR Congo hotspot,” BBC, 27 March 2023)

Need for urgent humanitarian assistance in North Kivu, says Doctors without borders
On 4 April, the Doctors Without Borders stated that urgent humanitarian assistance is needed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. It said that about a million people had been forced to flee their homes in North Kivu province the previous year following the M23 rebel violence. It added that the majority of the people are living in dire conditions and the aid workers are overwhelmed with increasing cases of measles and cholera. (“More aid urgently needed in eastern DR Congo - MSF,” BBC, 4 April 2023)

SENEGAL
Opposition leader found guilty of libel
On 30 March, leading Senegal’s opposition leader, Ousmane Sonko, was found guilty of Libel charges and was sentenced to jail for two months. He was accused of Libel after charging the country's Tourism Minister Mame Mbaye Niang of embezzlement. Sonko’s supporters fear that the sentence would prevent him from running for the presidential elections next year. Protests were marked across the capital, Dakar, ahead of the trial. (“Senegal opposition leader found guilty of libel,” BBC, 30 March 2023)

INTERNATIONAL
UN human rights office "extremly worried" about UK's Rwanda asylum plan
On 3 April, the UN human rights office said that it is “extremely worried about the impact” of the UK government’s Rwanda asylum plan. A spokesperson from the UN's human rights office said that the assessments of the refugee agency showed that the asylum plan in Rwanda was “not robust enough.” She added: "There are also concerns about respect for the right to freedom of assembly and freedom of expression in Rwanda. Those concerns do remain today; We have a lot of evidence of how these plans [off-shore asylum facilities] go wrong.” Meanwhile, UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman said that the policy would have a “significant deterrent effect” enough for people to stop crossing the dangerous channel to the UK. (“UN 'extremely worried' about Rwanda asylum plan,” BBC, 3 April 2023)

About the author
Anu Maria Joseph is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore.

The US-Iran War

May 2026 | CWA # 2098

Kirsten Wilfred Coelho

Why is the UK reluctant to engage?

NIAS Global Politics, Young Voices (GPYV)

May 2026 | CWA # 2097

Kirsten Wilfred Coelho

President Trump and the US-China Trade Tensions

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

NIAS Global Politics, Young Voices (GPYV)

May 2026 | CWA # 2095

Santhosh Guru PR

The Eurasian-Indo Pacific Congruence and its Critique

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

NIAS Global Politics, Young Voices (GPYV)

May 2026 | CWA # 2094

Rakshitha B

Transactional US foreign policy and it implications for India’s Strategic Autonomy

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

NIAS Global Politics, Young Voices (GPYV)

May 2026 | CWA # 2093

Glynnis Winona B

The Russia–Ukraine War and the Rise of Parallel Strategic Systems: A Critique of Raghavan’s Strategic Framework

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

Conflict Weekly

May 2026 | CWA # 2092

NIAS Global Politics Team

The US-Iran War, Week Ten

CW Column on Middle East: Escalating Israeli Aggression in Lebanon I UAE’s Covert Manoeuvres

CW Column

May 2026 | CWA # 2091

Brighty Ann Sarah

Conflicts in the Middle East:

Escalating Israeli Aggression in Lebanon I UAE’s Covert Manoeuvres

CW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2090

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week Ten:

Fraying Ceasefire, Renewed Negotiations and the Risk of a Stalemate

The World This Week

May 2026 | CWA # 2089

Global Politics Team

US troop withdrawal from Germany I UAE’s Exit from OPEC I Japan, Vietnam and PM Takaichi’s Visit

King Charles's US Visit

TWTW Takeaways

May 2026 | CWA # 2088

Nithin V

King Charles's US Visit:

Emphasis on strong bilateral relations, democratic values and security cooperation

TWTW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2087

Siddhi Halyur

Japan, Vietnam and PM Takaichi’s Visit

Exploring Strategic Sectors of Cooperation

TWTW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2086

Aishal Hab Yousuf

UAE’s Exit from OPEC:

Implications for the Middle East and the Energy Market

TWTW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2085

Glynnis Winona B

US troop withdrawal from Germany:

Growing US-Europe differences and Challenges for Berlin

Conflict Weekly

May 2026 | CWA # 2084

NIAS IPRI

The US-Iran War, Week Nine I Escalating Violence in Mali

Review: Five Takeaways of RSF's 2026 Report on Media Freedom

CW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2083

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week Nine:

Deadlocked Negotiations, Competing Agendas and Domestic Pressure

CW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2082

Akshath Kaimal

Escalating Violence in Mali:

Between Ethnic Insurgencies, Jihadist Attacks, and Military Coups

CW Review

May 2026 | CWA # 2081

Jenin Raj S

Media freedom hits a 25-year low:

Five Takeaways from the RSF 2026 Index

The World This Week

April 2026 | CWA # 2080

Global Politics Team

Nepal’s New “National Commitment” I Japan’s New Defence Posture

Four Takeaways of the WFP's report on the fallouts of the Middle East crisis

TWTW Note

April 2026 | CWA # 2079

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Japan’s New Defence Posture:

From Post-War Pacifism to Strategic Recalibration and Autonomy

TWTW Note

April 2026 | CWA # 2078

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal’s New “National Commitment”

Managing Consensus and Moving ahead towards a New Nepal

TWTW Review

April 2026 | CWA # 2077

Nithin V

The Middle East Crisis and its Fallouts on Hunger and Global Food Supply Network

Four Takeaways of the WFP's report on the fallouts of the Middle East crisis, April 2026

CW Column: Africa This Week

April 2026 | CWA # 2076

Anu Maria Joseph

Three years of War in Sudan, DRC-M23 talks in Switzerland and the collapse of the peace agreement in Tigray

Report Review

April 2026 | CWA # 2075

R Preetha

The US-Iran War Fallouts on the Asia Pacific, Energy Security and Supply Chains

Five Takeaways of the UNDP Report, April 2026

CW Note

April 2026 | CWA # 2074

Brighty Ann Sarah

Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire:

Asymmetric Terms, Fragile Truce and Israeli Occupation

CW Note

April 2026 | CWA # 2073

Akshath Kaimal

The US-Iran War, Week Eight:

A Fragile Ceasefire, Attempts to Control Hormuz and the Stalled Talks in Islamabad

Special Commentary

April 2026 | CWA # 2072

Anu Maria Joseph

Three Years of War in Sudan

Prolonged Stalemate, Humanitarian Cost, External Interventions and Regional Fallouts

Conflict Weekly

April 2026 | CWA # 2071

NIAS Global Politics Team

Three Years of Civil War in Sudan I The US-Iran War, Week Eight I Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire

Review of the UNDP Report on Military Escalation in the Middle East I Conflict Weekly Column on Africa

Conflict Weekly Special Edition

April 2026 | CWA # 2070

NIAS Global Politics Team

Peace and Conflicts This Quarter (January–March 2026)

The US-Iran War I Conflicts in Africa I The War in Ukraine I China-Japan Tensions I Pakistan-Afghanistan Clashes

Peace and Conflicts This Quarter (January–March 2026)

April 2026 | CWA # 2069

Padmashree Anandhan

The War in Ukraine

Expanding Drone Warfare, Russia's Strategic Patience and Ukraine's Diplomatic Outreach

Peace and Conflicts This Quarter (January–March 2026)

April 2026 | CWA # 2068

Femy Francis

China-Japan Tensions

Escalating Defence Posturing and Economic Decoupling

Peace and Conflicts This Quarter (January–March 2026)

April 2026 | CWA # 2067

Anu Maria Joseph

Conflicts in Africa

Continuing Conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan and DR Congo, Security issues in Nigeria, and Political Instability in Madagascar

Peace and Conflicts This Quarter (January–March 2026)

April 2026 | CWA # 2066

Akshath Kaimal

The Pakistan-Afghanistan Conflict

Recurrent Clashes, Defiant Taliban, Contesting Narratives and Emerging China’s Role

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2065

Lakshmi Venugopal Menon

The Middle East (Jan–Mar 2026):

The US-Iran War, Israel-Hamas Conflict and their interconnected fallouts

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2064

Anwesha Ghosh

Afghanistan (Jan–Mar 2026):

Gender Repression, Leadership Rifts, Regional Realignments and Clashes with Pakistan

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2063

Ramya B

Russia (Jan-Mar 2026)

Assertive Military Posture, Attempts for an Economic Turnaround and Search for Partners

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2062

Himani Pant

Europe (Jan-Mar 2026)

Trade diversification & FTAs, Increased defence spending, Tightening irregular migration and Economic slowdown

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2061

S Shaji

Africa (Jan-Mar 2026)

Elections, Civil Wars, Militancy and Peace Initiatives

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2060

Nanda Kishor M S

India and the Neighbourhood (Jan-Mar 2026)

Continuity, Caution and Calculated assertiveness

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2059

Adarsh Vijay

India and the World (Jan-Mar 2026)

Maintaining Strategic Autonomy, Balancing the US relations and Resetting the China ties

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2058

Nishchal N Pandey & Mahesh Raj Bhatta

Nepal (Jan-Mar 2026)

Political Upheaval, Generational Change and Economic Uncertainty

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2057

Bibhu Prasad Routray

Myanmar (Jan-Mar 2026)

An Illegitimate Regime’s Consolidation Game

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2056

Ashik J Bonofer

Southeast Asia (Jan-Mar 2026)

Deteriorating situation in Myanmar, Philippines as the ASEAN Chair, New government in Thailand, and Economic & Environmental challenges

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2055

Haans J Freddy

East Asia (Jan-Mar 2026)

China’s military operations near Taiwan, Japan-China tensions and South Korea’s security challenges

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2054

Amrita Jash

China’s External Landscape (Jan-Mar 2026):

Regional assertion, Pragmatic recalibration with the West and Avoiding military entanglement in the Middle East

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2053

Anand V

China’s Domestic Landscape (Jan-Mar 2026):

The "Two Sessions," Recalibrated growth targets, Technology prioritization, and Military purges

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2052

Shreya Upadhyay

The United States (Jan-Mar 2026)

Tariffs, Ukraine, Iran and Operationalization of Trump’s World Order

The World This Week

April 2026 | CWA # 2051

TWTW Special Edition

TWTW Special Edition, 350th Issue

THE WORLD THIS QUARTER (Jan-Mar 2026)

Conflict Weekly

April 2026 | CWA # 2050

IPRI Team

The US-Iran War, Week Five: Widening Conflict, Houthi Involvement, and Trump’s Renewed Threats

PR Commentary

March 2026 | CWA # 2043

Abhimanyu Solanki

Escalatory Airpower, Hybrid Retaliation, and Regional Security

Reassessing the Pakistan–Afghanistan Confrontation and Its Implications for India

March 2026 | CWA # 2042

R Preetha

Transnational organized crime, Emerging technologies, Global security environment and ‘Diverse threat vectors’

Five Takeaways of the US Annual Threat Assessment (ATA) Report for 2026

March 2026 | CWA # 2041

Aparna A Nair

China-Vietnam 3+3 Strategic Dialogue

Defence, Diplomacy and Public Security

March 2026 | CWA # 2040

Femy Francis

China's Interests and Strategies in the US-Iran War

Why Beijing’s support for Iran is rhetoric and muted

March 2026 | CWA # 2039

Femy Francis

Trump-Xi Meeting

Why did Trump reschedule it? What does that mean?

March 2026 | CWA # 2038

Anu Maria Joseph

Sudan-Chad tensions and the Boko Haram attack in Nigeria's Maiduguri

March 2026 | CWA # 2037

Padmashree Anandhan

Massive drone attacks, Growing energy leverage and Drifting peace efforts

March 2026 | CWA # 2036

Brighty Ann Sarah

Continuing Israel-Hezbollah Confrontation

Expanding Israeli Military Operations and the Reshaping of Southern Lebanon

March 2026 | CWA # 2035

Akshath Kaimal

Pakistan-Afghanistan Conflict

Broken ceasefire, Expanding military strikes and Worsening humanitarian situation

March 2026 | CWA # 2034

Rohini Reenum

The US-Iran War, Week Three

Multi-front Escalation and Economic Fallouts

Global Politics Early Bird

March 2026 | CWA # 2033

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal after elections:

Five major challenges for the new government

The World This Week

March 2026 | CWA # 2032

Global Politics Team

Trump-Xi Meeting I China Interests and Strategies in the US-Iran War I China-Vietnam 3+3 Strategic Dialogue I US Annual Threat Assessment 2026 Takeaways

Regional Roundups: From East Asia to the Americas

Conflict Weekly

March 2026 | CWA # 2031

IPRI Team

The US-Iran War, Week Three | Pakistan-Afghanistan Clashes | Continuing Israel-Hezbollah Confrontation

Weekly Column on Ukraine & Africa

Global Politics Review

March 2026 | CWA # 2030

Siddhi Halyur

State power, Entrenched authoritarian rule, Structural inequalities, Gender Constraints, and Restricted civic space in Middle East

Four Takeaways of the Human Rights Watch Report on the Middle East

Global Politics Review

March 2026 | CWA # 2029

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Economic modernization without political liberalization, Legal systems as instruments of political control, Shrinking civic space and Sports Washing

Five Takeaways of the HRW Report 2026 on the Middle East (Saudi Arabia and the UAE)

Global Politics Review

March 2026 | CWA # 2028

Jayasree

Legislative suppression of dissent, Promotion of patriarchal norms, Forced assimilation of minorities and Censorship in China

Four Takeaways of the HRW Report 2026

Global Politics Review

March 2026 | CWA # 2027

Rebecca Ann Oommen

Rampant armed conflicts and the Erosion of Democracy in Africa

Five Takeaways of HRW Report 2026

Global Politics Review

March 2026 | CWA # 2026

Manik Dhawan

Significant setback to Human Rights situation in Europe

Four Takeaways of HRW Report 2026

Global Politics Review

March 2026 | CWA # 2025

Santhosh Guru PR

Alarming rise of Authoritarianism and Autocracy in the Americas

Five Takeaways of Human Rights Watch Report 2026

March 2026 | CWA # 2024

Lekshmi MK

The UN and the Iran-US War

UNSC Resolution 2817 between “Clear and Unified Message” and “Manifest Injustice”

March 2026 | CWA # 2023

Femy Francis

China’s Two Sessions 2026

New Five-Year Plan, Ethnic Unity Law, and an Enhanced Defence Budget

March 2026 | CWA # 2022

Padmashree Anandhan

Continuing Strikes and Inconsistent Diplomatic Efforts

March 2026 | CWA # 2021

Anu Maria Joseph

Political instability in Madagascar and spreading violence in South Sudan

March 2026 | CWA # 2020

Brighty Ann Sarah

Continuing Israel-Hezbollah Confrontation

Attacks in South Lebanon, Beirut’s Conundrum, and Tel Aviv’s Greater Goals

March 2026 | CWA # 2019

Akshath Kaimal

Rising Violence in Nigeria

Limited State Capacity, Multiple Actors, and a Complex Security Environment

March 2026 | CWA # 2018

Rohini Reenum

The US-Iran War, Week Two

Expanding Fronts, Shifting Goalposts, and Global Fallout

The World This Week

March 2026 | CWA # 2017

Global Politics Team

China’s Two Sessions | The UNSC Resolution on the US-Iran War

Conflict Weekly

March 2026 | CWA # 2016

IPRI Team

The US-Iran War, Week Two | Rising Violence in Nigeria | Continuing Israel-Hezbollah Confrontation

Weekly Column on Ukraine & Africa

March 2026 | CWA # 2015

Global Politics Team

The World Today #275, 10 March 2026

The World Today

March 2026 | CWA # 2014

Global Politics Team

The World Today #274, 09 March 2026

The World Today

March 2026 | CWA # 2013

Anu Maria Joseph

Violence in South Sudan and the US sanctions on Rwanda

Conflict Weekly Column on Africa

March 2026 | CWA # 2012

Padmashree Anandhan

The War in Ukraine

Long-range strikes, Defence adaptation and the EU’s energy dependence

March 2026 | CWA # 2011

Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha

Canada’s PM Mark Carney’s India Visit

Resetting Economic, Strategic and Cultural Ties

Global Politics Early Bird

March 2026 | CWA # 2010

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal Elections 2026

The Rise of the “New” and the Fall of the “Old”

March 2026 | CWA # 2009

Sreemaya Nair

Nepal Elections 2026

Rise of a new leadership and Reset in political landscape

The World This Week

March 2026 | CWA # 2008

Global Politics Team

Canadian PM's India Visit I Nepal Elections and its Political Reset

March 2026 | CWA # 2007

Global Politics Team

The World Today #272, 06 March 2026

The World Today

Early Bird

March 2026 | CWA # 2006

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal Election 2026, Day One

Peaceful polling, with over 60 per cent turnout

March 2026 | CWA # 2005

Global Politics Team

The World Today #271, 05 March 2026

The World Today

March 2026 | CWA # 2004

Akshath Kaimal

The “Forgotten” South Sudan Conflict

Instability returns, with a fragile peace agreement, uptick in violence and limited international engagement

March 2026 | CWA # 2003

Yesasvi Koganti

PM Modi’s Visit to Israel

From bilateral ties to a special strategic partnership

March 2026 | CWA # 2002

Femy Francis

German Chancellor’s China Visit

Reducing trade deficit and recalibrating economic cooperation with Beijing

March 2026 | CWA # 2001

R Preetha

Trump’s State of the Union Address

Six major takeaways on the economy, border and internal security and Iran

March 2026 | CWA # 2000

Rohini Reenum

The US-Iran War, Week One

Rapid Escalation, Regional Spillover, Global Uncertainty

Conflict Weekly

March 2026 | CWA # 1999

IPRI Team

The US-Iran War, Week One | The Return of Violence to South Sudan

Weekly Column on Ukraine & Africa

February 2026 | CWA # 1998

Anu Maria Joseph

Instability in Sudan

Response to the genocide call and the threats of a regional spillover

February 2026 | CWA # 1997

Padmashree Anandhan

Four Years of War in Ukraine

Continuing Uncertainty

February 2026 | CWA # 1996

Akshath Kaimal

Pakistan-Afghanistan Clashes

Another round of cross-border attacks

March 2026 | CWA # 1995

Global Politics Team

The World Today #269, 03 March 2026

The World Today

March 2026 | CWA # 1994

Global Politics Team

The World Today #268, 02 March 2026

The World Today

PR Commentary

March 2026 | CWA # 1993

D Suba Chandran

The US-Iran Conflict and Pakistan

Balancing Rhetoric, Regional Interests and Global Alignments

Conflict Weekly

February 2026 | CWA # 1992

IPRI Team

Pakistan-Afghanistan Clashes I Fours Years of Ukraine War

Weekly Column on Africa

March 2026 | CWA # 1991

Global Politics Team

Trump’s State of the Union Address | German Chancellor’s China Visit | India’s PM’s Israel Visit

February 2026 | CWA # 1990

Global Politics Team

The World Today #266, 27 February 2026

The World Today

Conflict Weekly

February 2026 | CWA # 1989

IPRI Team

Abu Dhabi Talks on Ukraine I Militant Attacks in Balochistan

CW Columns on Middle East and Africa

February 2026 | CWA # 1988

Padmashree Anandhan

Ukraine Peace talks in Abu Dhabi

Negotiations without a ceasefire or resolution

February 2026 | CWA # 1987

Akshath Kaimal

Continuing militant attacks in Balochistan

Expanding violence, Security-first response and Missing political dialogue in Pakistan

PR Commentary

February 2026 | CWA # 1986

R Preetha

Pakistan’s Central Asia Boost

Focus on Trade, Defense, Energy and Regional Connectivity

PR Commentary

February 2026 | CWA # 1985

Abhimanyu Solanki

Basant in Pakistan

The return of Basant, and what it signifies

February 2026 | CWA # 1984

Global Politics Team

The World Today #265, 26 February 2026

The World Today

February 2026 | CWA # 1983

Global Politics Team

The World Today #264, 25 February 2026

The World Today

February 2026 | CWA # 1982

Global Politics Team

The World Today #263, 24 February 2026

The World Today

February 2026 | CWA # 1981

Global Politics Team

The World Today #261-262, 23 February 2026

The World Today

February 2026 | CWA # 1980

Global Politics Team

The World Today #259, 20 February 2026

The World Today

February 2026 | CWA # 1979

Global Politics Team

The World Today #258, 19 February 2026

The World Today

February 2026 | CWA # 1978

Global Politics Team

The World Today #256, 17 February 2026

The World Today

February 2026 | CWA # 1977

Anu Maria Joseph

Violence in Nigeria

US military deployment amidst worsening insurgency

February 2026 | CWA # 1976

Lekshmi MK

The War in Ukraine

The Geneva Talks and Growing Negotiation Asymmetry

February 2026 | CWA # 1975

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran Negotiations in Geneva

Ambiguous Conclusions and Escalating Fears of Military Action

February 2026 | CWA # 1974

Lekshmi MK

Munich Security Conference 2026:

Europe’s Security Concerns, Defence Consolidation and Transatlantic Recalibration

February 2026 | CWA # 1973

Yesasvi Koganti

The Global AI Impact Summit in New Delhi:

Six Major Takeaways

PR Explainer

December 2025 | CWA # 1972

Lekshmi MK

Pakistan-Taliban Peace Talks

Background, Issues, Challenges and Implications

Pakistan in 2025

December 2025 | CWA # 1971

Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi

Pakistan Budget 2025-26

Legislating stabilisation under IMF discipline and coalition constraints

Pakistan in 2025

December 2025 | CWA # 1970

Aparna A Nair

Pakistan & China

Ten Years of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

Pakistan in 2025

December 2025 | CWA # 1969

Lekshmi MK

Pakistan's Climate Change Challenges

Governance Gaps, Adaptation Deficit, and Climate Finance Vulnerability

PR Explainer

November 2025 | CWA # 1968

Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi

Pakistan and the US

A New opening, or another cycle?

PR Explainer

November 2025 | CWA # 1967

R Preetha

Pakistan and IMF’s Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Assessment

Risks, Reforms and Trajectories

November 2025 | CWA # 1966

Lekshmi MK

Pakistan’s Climate and Water Crisis

Five Questions on Challenges, Capacity and Policies

The World This Week

February 2026 | CWA # 1965

Global Politics Team

AI Impact Summit in New Delhi I Munich Security Conference 2026

Conflict Weekly

February 2026 | CWA # 1964

IPRI Team

US-Iran & Ukraine Negotiations in Geneva I US Military Deployment in Nigeria

CW Columns on Middle East and Africa

February 2026 | CWA # 1963

Global Politics Team

The World Today #255, 16 February 2026

Today in History

The World This Week

February 2026 | CWA # 1962

Global Politics Team

Japan: Sanae Takaichi’s historic win | Honk Kong: Jimmy Lai Sentenced

Regional Roundups: From East Asia to the Americas

Early Bird

February 2026 | CWA # 1961

Lekshmi MK

Sanae Takaichi’s historic win in Japan

What does it mean for domestic politics and regional stability?

Early Bird

February 2026 | CWA # 1960

Femy Francis

Jimmy Lai sentenced for 20 years in Hong Kong: Who, What, and Why

CEAP

February 2026 | CWA # 1959

Yesasvi Koganti

UK and China

PM Keir Starmer’s visit and the Recalibration of Economic, Strategic, and Domestic ties

February 2026 | CWA # 1958

Akshath Kaimal

India-EU Free Trade Agreement: Five Major Takeaways

The focus on expanded cooperation in defence, technology and critical minerals

February 2026 | CWA # 1957

R Preetha

The India–US interim trade framework

Tariff recalibration and Energy and Supply Chain realignment

February 2026 | CWA # 1956

Lekshmi MK

End of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START)

Erosion of arms control, Return of nuclear anxieties, and the New focus on China

The World This Week

February 2026 | CWA # 1955

Global Politics Team

End of the New START I India–US interim Trade Framework I India-EU Free Trade Agreement I UK PM Keir Starmer’s China visit

Regional Roundups: From East Asia to the Americas

February 2026 | CWA # 1954

Nishchal Nath Pandey

Nepal Elections 2026: Political Parties, Gen Z Protests and Hope for a New Beginning

Conflict Weekly

February 2026 | CWA # 1953

IPRI Team

Abu Dhabi Talks on Ukraine I Militant Attacks in Balochistan

Weekly Columns: Conflicts in Africa and the Middle East

CW Column: Conflicts in the Middle East

January 2026 | CWA # 1952

Brighty Ann Sarah

US threats against Iran, and Phase Two operations in Gaza

CW Column: Conflicts in Africa

January 2026 | CWA # 1951

Anu Maria Joseph

Africa: Renewed violence in Ethiopia and a Jihadist attack in Niger

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1950

Lekshmi MK

The War in Ukraine: The Trilateral Talks, and the Deadlock over Donetsk & Security Guarantees for Kyiv

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1949

R Preetha

The United States: ICE Crackdowns, Rising Resistance and the Political/Legal pushback

Conflict Weekly

January 2026 | CWA # 1948

ICE Crackdowns and Resistance in the US I Trilateral Talks on Ukraine

TWTW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1947

Brighty Ann Sarah

The Pentagon’s National Defence Strategy: Four major takeaways

TWTW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1946

R Preetha

The Davos Summit 2026

Five Major Takeaways from The World Economic Forum

The World This Week

January 2026 | CWA # 1945

Global Politics Team

The Davos Forum 2026 Takeaways I The US Pentagon’s National Defence Strategy

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1944

Brighty Ann Sarah

Syria: The State victory over the Syrian Democratic Forces

Conflict Weekly Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1943

Anu Maria Joseph

Another major kidnapping in Nigeria and Election announcement in Guinea-Bissau

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1942

Lekshmi MK

Greenland: Trump’s escalation-deescalation approach and Europe’s defence

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1941

Brighty Ann Sarah

The War in Gaza: Trump’s Board of Peace and the Challenges to Phase Two

Conflict Weekly

January 2026 | CWA # 1940

IPRI Team

Trump’s “Board of Peace” in Gaza I Escalation/De-escalation in Greenland

TWTW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1939

Lekshmi MK

Greenland: Trump’s escalation-deescalation strategy and Europe’s defence

The World This Week

January 2026 | CWA # 1938

Continuing Tensions over Greenland

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1937

Anu Maria Joseph

Instability in Nigeria: Intensifying domestic responses, and questions over Trump’s intervention

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1936

Brighty Ann Sarah

Protests in Iran: Continuing Stalemate and Shifting US Position

Conflict Weekly

January 2026 | CWA # 1935

IPRI Team

Protests in Iran | Instability in Nigeria

The World This Week

January 2026 | CWA # 1934

Global Politics Team

The US, Greenland and Trump's Claims

Conflict Weekly

January 2026 | CWA # 1933

IPRI Team

Protests in Iran, the US Military Intervention in Venezuela and Conflicts in Africa

NIAS Conflict Weekly | The World This Week

January 2026 | CWA # 1932

Global Politics Team