The discussion focused on Russia's nuclear tests, which have not occurred since the 1990s, and controversial developments involving new weapon systems such as the Burevestnik missile and the Poseidon nuclear torpedo. These actions were noted as violations of international norms and accompanied by Russia’s typical rhetoric about Western threats.
The narrative highlighted Donald Trump’s statements about preventing a nuclear World War III, underlining the political impact of the nuclear topic for him. Current US policy does not make concessions to Moscow, which is seen as positive for Ukraine.
Special attention was given to a recent meeting with Central Asian countries. While China retains significant regional influence, the US seeks to balance this via dialogue with leaders from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. These countries aim to diversify and balance relations among China, Russia and the US.
Economic challenges were discussed, especially China's dumping practices in Kazakhstan’s petrochemical industry, emphasizing that competition for influence in Central Asia is just beginning. For the US, maintaining a presence and influence is vital, as this allows control over land trade routes between China and Europe that bypass Russia.
The policy of balancing global powers is also seen in Belarus and US economic interests in fertilizers, illustrating the overall regional trend of seeking to retain influence and diversify partnerships.
