Competing with China, why Russia's energy war is working, and more.
Weekend Reads
July 26, 2025
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Can the DFC Compete with China’s Belt and Road Initiative?
by Jack Moriarty & Jim Sorenson
Reauthorizing the DFC with an employee ownership focus could counter China’s influence, empower workers in developing nations, and align US foreign investment with long-term economic self-sufficiency goals. Read it here.
Russia’s Energy War Is Still Working—and the West Should Pay Attention
By Armen Agas & Tom Cutler
Moscow’s wartime oil adaptations in the wake of Russia’s energy war reveal a great deal about building resilient energy systems. Read it here.
Burning the Army’s Bridge to America
by Alia Awadallah
Cutting the Army’s civilian aide program will only erode public trust in the military. Read it here.
Why Azerbaijan Is Turning Away from Moscow
by Taras Kuzio
Azerbaijani-Russian relations face their worst crisis in decades, fueled by geopolitical rivalry, energy competition, media warfare, and Russia’s aggression, culminating in a deadly airliner incident and deep diplomatic fractures. Read it here.
Has the United States Turned Towards Ukraine?
by Andreas Umland
The change in Trump’s rhetoric vis-à-vis Russia has so far meant very little. Read it here.