The two giants of the Asian continent have always been close, but they have never communicated as intensely and amicably as they have in recent times. China's position continues to strengthen despite all the mistrust surrounding Russian projects. The scenario of a ‘reverse colonisation’ compared to the times when Moscow was the ‘big brother’.
New Russian threats in Kherson bring the effects of the conflict on marine pollution back to the forefront. Research published last summer identified at least 70 chemicals from weapons in the waters of the Black Sea. Even the clashes and bombings are having devastating effects on marine wildlife.
The Decembrist revolt on December 14, 1825 saw army officers and intellectuals in favor of liberal reforms attempt to seize power after the sudden death of Tsar Alexander I, only to be crushed by the repression of Nicholas I. An icon of the recurring alternation between “system” and “revolt,” regime and anarchy, in the parable of Russian history.
Putin's new national policy strategy also addresses the issue of religion, further strengthening the role of the Orthodox Church. It places extremist terrorism and “Russophobia” in interethnic and interreligious relations on the same level as “threats”.
The debate among Russians over Islamic rituals in public spaces in the absence of sufficient places of worship is becoming increasingly heated. Muslim religious authorities reiterate their recommendation to choose places where other people are not disturbed. But in the growing climate of hostility towards communities from Central Asia, there is no shortage of violent raids against Muslims at prayer.
Over the last three years, Russia has invested almost one and a half billion dollars in the development of the Northern Sea Route. The goal is to increase traffic from the current 38 million tonnes to 220 million by 2035. However, the extreme weather conditions, the archaic ships and, above all, the toxic fuel used make this ambitious project a decidedly risky venture.
