Conflicts have intensified across the former Soviet Union, now in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. It’s a worrying and disillusioning development for the region.
The recent outbreak of hostilities on the Kyrgyz-Tajik border represents a dangerous escalation from previous tension and skirmishes to a distinct act of aggression.
That after 30 years, various Kyrgyz presidents and Rahmon — who has been Tajik president since 1994 — have not been able to settle the border is a major failing.
Anahita Saymidinova, Madeleine Reeves, and Aigerim Turgunbaeva discuss the violence along the border and the long-term implications for both countries.