Political analyst Ihor Reiterovych discussed recent changes in US policy toward Central Asia. The new American approach focuses on reducing Russian influence in the region, which could indirectly benefit Ukraine. The US is also competing with China in the area, though less acutely than with Russia.
Reiterovych noted that current processes in Central Asia do not have a direct impact on ending the war against Ukraine. However, regional leaders are increasingly supporting ideas for peace along the current front lines, making Russia unsure of its allies and weakening Moscow’s position.
Donald Trump recently held an S5+1 summit in Washington with the leaders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. The meeting resulted in several economic deals aimed at strengthening cooperation with the US and reducing dependence on Russia. These include a major investment agreement with Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan's partnership with Capital and a commitment to purchase Nvidia chips, and deals for Boeing aircraft sales.
Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the region’s right to US presence and the desire to ease dependence on Moscow. Trade figures show declining Russian economic influence and rising presence of both China and the US. As Russia is now at war against Ukraine and highly dependent on China, it cannot offer new competitive proposals to Central Asian partners.
Central Asian countries will increasingly balance the interests of China, the US, and Russia. The growing US presence has already drawn negative reaction from Moscow, particularly due to Kazakhstan’s independent stance. The US focus on economic partnership may gradually erode Russia’s geopolitical role and expand American influence.
This shift comes amid new challenges in Russia’s relations with Central Asian states, including migration and political disagreements. Reiterovych concludes that the growing US role indirectly benefits Ukraine by weakening Russia and reducing its network of supportive allies.
