The Russian natural gas monopoly Gazprom outlined ambitious and costly plans to develop new production and exports hubs in the country’s Far East. Meanwhile, the gas giant has also apparently begun reassessing its ties with Central Asia. READ MORE

That corruption is a serious challenge for Russia has long been acknowledged, not least by President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev. READ MORE

Inevitably after a major election and government reshuffle, Ukraine’s counterparts once again start asking themselves, which way Ukraine is going to go. Typically, a geopolitical choice is meant, but if you ask the regular Ukrainians on the street what’s on their mind, it won’t be geopolitics. READ MORE