New World Warriors: Central Asians Take On Russia at Their Doorstep

Intriguing Diplomatic Showdowns Unfold in Central Asia After Ukraine Invasion

In Central Asia, a region once dominated by the tsarist and Soviet empires, unexpected diplomatic tensions have emerged in seemingly ordinary settings. From a school classroom in Uzbekistan to a football press conference in Kazakhstan, incidents have highlighted the growing assertiveness of Central Asian nations in defending their interests and identities following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

1. Language Battles Emerge:
   • In Tashkent, Uzbekistan, a teacher faced backlash for conducting a Russian-language class in Uzbek when a student voiced her concerns. The Russian foreign ministry’s criticism led to a defiant response from Uzbekistan’s parliament.
   • Kazakhstan’s national football team coach was fined for disrespectful comments about the Kazakh language at a press conference.
2. Unraveling Historical Narratives:
   • Central Asian nations are reclaiming control over their history, moving away from glorifying Russian influence to highlighting indigenous movements like Jadidism.
   • Governments are gradually shedding light on Stalinist repressions, with Kazakhstan declassifying records of 2.4 million victims in 2023.
3. Navigating the Tightrope with Russia:
   • While Central Asian countries maintain ties with Russia, some indirectly support Putin’s aggression in Ukraine by facilitating trade circumvention of sanctions.
   • Despite concerns over Putin’s actions in Ukraine, Central Asian states limit media coverage of sensitive topics, like Russian atrocities.

Central Asian nations, including Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, are exploring ways to distance themselves from Russia post-invasion, spurred by the region’s economic potential. Amidst competition from global players like the US, EU, China, Turkey, and Russia, Central Asia emerges from its cold war backwater status as a region of increasing geopolitical significance.