Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 Disaster.

On December 25, a Russian air defense system struck an Embraer 190 aircraft, which subsequently crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan. We analyze the events leading to this tragedy, Putin’s perspective on Russia’s responsibility, his stance toward Chechen authorities, and the impact on Russian-Azerbaijani relations. We also explore the potential consequences for the ongoing conflict between Baku and Yerevan.

The End Of Ukrainian Gas Transit.

This section examines Putin’s calculations regarding Gazprom’s declining role in the European market, Moscow’s view of Robert Fico’s unexpected visit, and Gazprom’s strategic positioning.

The Energy Crisis In Moldova.

Russia’s decision not to redirect gas supplies to Transnistria has plunged the region into a severe energy crisis, leaving it without heat or electricity. We discuss how Moscow is leveraging this situation to influence Moldova’s political landscape.