Today, Explained Why Russia sent its janky version of NATO to Kazakhstan
Jan 13, 2022
In this discussion, Amy McKinnon, a reporter at Foreign Policy specializing in geopolitics, dives into the dramatic unrest in Kazakhstan spurred by rising fuel prices and authoritarian governance. She explains the unprecedented deployment of CSTO troops to restore order, comparing this Russia-backed alliance to NATO. The conversation highlights the historical context of Russia's influence in the region, the implications of Kazakhstan's leadership decisions, and how the CSTO's swift response marks a significant shift in regional security dynamics.
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Kazakhstan Protests
- Protests in Kazakhstan began over fuel price increases but quickly evolved.
- They tapped into broader public grievances like corruption, inequality, and authoritarian rule.
Government Response
- Thousands protested in Almaty, attacking government buildings.
- The government responded by authorizing police to shoot protesters without warning, leading to many arrests and deaths.
CSTO Intervention
- Kazakhstan's government requested CSTO intervention, claiming foreign-trained terrorists were involved.
- This justification lacks compelling evidence and echoes a common authoritarian tactic to suppress dissent.