Welcome to the China In Eurasia briefing, an in-depth exploration of China’s expanding influence from Eastern Europe to Central Asia.
I’m your correspondent and here’s what I’m uncovering right now.
The Shadow of Hybrid Warfare
Recent sabotage of undersea cables is casting a long shadow over the Baltic Sea and Taiwan. Following incidents where cables were severed between Latvia and Sweden, suspicions have pointed toward Russian forces. Swedish authorities even seized a vessel they believed to be involved in the sabotage.
In Taiwan, a similar undersea cable was damaged, and while Beijing denies involvement, Taipei suspects China. Both regions are now on high alert, learning from each other’s defense strategies.
What’s at Stake? Experts warn that these incidents could be precursors to broader conflict, meant to wear down adversarial responses.
Increasingly, China and Russia are working in tandem, sharing tactics to reshape the global order. Each nation appears to be taking cues from the other’s shadow warfare.
More Stories from Eurasia
China’s Role in Ending Ukraine’s War
With President Donald Trump seeking an end to the conflict in Ukraine, the spotlight is on China’s potential role in negotiations. However, despite some diplomatic pressure, China continues to support Russian interests.
Trump’s administration has urged Xi Jinping to play a more significant role in bringing Putin to the table, but Beijing’s response has been lukewarm.
Church of Almighty God Gains Followers in Romania
One of China’s controversial religious groups is making headway in Romania. The Church of Almighty God, also known as the Eastern Lightning, is expanding its influence through virtual sermons in Romanian.
Founded in China in 1989, the group is branded a cult and faces persecution there. Online outreach is a key strategy for the sect, attracting converts worldwide.
The U.S.-China Tech Race Intensifies
China’s tech sector is heating up, with new developments challenging U.S. dominance. The launch of DeepSeek, an AI platform, showcases competition in this field.
Within days of the U.S. government considering a TikTok ban, DeepSeek debuted, offering capabilities similar to major tech players like Nvidia and Microsoft, but at a fraction of the cost.
These developments signal a shift in the tech landscape, highlighting the complex dynamics in the U.S.-China relationship.
Across the Continent
Serbia’s Government United in Protests
Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic recently resigned amid widespread protests over a tragic train accident in Novi Sad that killed 15 people. Critics are linking the disaster to government corruption and contracts with Chinese firms.
While authorities claim Chinese companies were not responsible, the controversy has deepened public skepticism about the current administration.
Taiwanese Tariff Plans on Trump’s Agenda
President Trump intends to impose tariffs on various imports, including chips, pharmaceuticals, and steel, aiming to boost domestic production. Taiwan, home to the world’s largest contract chipmaker, TSMC, stands to be significantly impacted.
TSMC is vital to global tech supply chains, supplying components to giants like Apple and Nvidia.
India-China Reconciliation Efforts
India and China have resumed direct flights after almost five years, marking a significant step in diplomatic relations. This move signals a possible thaw following high tensions over a border dispute.
A Focus Point
A Chinese official recently denied CIA suggestions that the COVID-19 pandemic originated from a lab leak. The agency released a report two days after John Ratcliffe was sworn in as the new director, indicating low confidence in the lab leak theory.
This allegation remains a point of contention, raising tensions between the U.S. and China.
That’s all for now. Feel free to reach out with any questions, comments, or tips.
Until next time,
Reid Standish
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