Eastern Europe

Axis of autocrats versus democratic Europe

By Brian Whitmore

Vladimir Putin will pay a rare visit to his last remaining ally Alyaksandr Lukashenka in Belarus next week as the two dictators face the reality of mounting international isolation over the criminal invasion of Ukraine.

A democratic Belarus is vital for Ukrainian and European security

By Alesia Rudnik

Belarus dictator Alyaksandr Lukashenka's supporting role in Vladimir Putin's Ukraine War has underlined the security threat posed to Ukraine and Europe by the authoritarian regime in Minsk.

Russian War Report: Russian governor accuses Ukraine of launching multiple attacks on Kursk 

By Digital Forensic Research Lab

The governor of Russia's Kursk Oblast accused Ukrainian forces of opening fire on two locations in the region. Meanwhile, pro-Kremlin Telegram channels recycle narratives about Western weapon sales again.

Lithuanian PM: Russia ‘keeps on proving we were right’

By Dan Peleschuk

Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė described how her country responds to the stark geopolitical realities presented by Russia and other problematic states.

State of the Order: Assessing May 2022

The State of the Order breaks down the month's most important events impacting the democratic world order.

Renewed Belarus military buildup is a sign of Lukashenka’s desperation

By Brian Whitmore

Belarus dictator Alyaksandr Lukashenka is saber-rattling on the Ukrainian border once again but it is unclear whether he is genuinely preparing to invade Ukraine or merely seeking to demonstrate his loyalty to Putin.