In a direct challenge to Russia’s influence in its own backyard, US President Donald Trump is scheduling a major summit with the five leaders of Central Asia for November 6.
This assertive American move, confirmed by the leaders of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, aims to capitalize on the geopolitical uncertainty created by the war in Ukraine.
Russia’s traditional role as the region’s security guarantor has been undermined, leading the C5 to seek new partners. The US is positioning itself as a viable alternative.
This summit is not happening in isolation. China and the EU have also been actively courting the C5 leaders, hosting their own meetings earlier this year.
The region is a key strategic prize, rich in natural resources like rare earths and geographically positioned as a potential trade super-corridor.
