Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan Border Skirmishes (2022) and Waning Russian Influence in Central Asia

Adam Saud; Anjum Gul

doi:10.54418/ca-92.198

Authors

Adam Saud Professor of International Relations, Bahria University, Islamabad, Pakistan.
Anjum Gul Lecturer of International Relations, Muslim Youth University, Islamabad, Pakistan. Ph.D. International Relations Scholar, Bahria University, Islamabad, Pakistan.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54418/ca-92.198

Keywords:

Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Central Asia, Border Conflict, Conflict Resolution, Mediation.

Abstract

Since their independence, Central Asian republics witnessed most serious interstate military escalation between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan in 2022 which left several dead and hundreds injured. There is around 600 KMs of disputed border between the two states which is the major bone of contention. This war also led to a substantial damage to civilian properties. This study analyses the reasons, intensity and outcomes of the war. It particularly evaluates the Russian role in conflict resolution and impacts of this war on the regional security. Findings show that Russian involvement in Ukraine war has negatively impacted its ability to keep influence in the Central Asian region. Russian led CSTO also offered diplomatic solution by connecting both parties through telephonic conversation. Research recommends a regional mechanism to resolve the border conflicts not only between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan but in the whole region.

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