Significant changes have transformed Central Asia and the Caucasus since Donald Trump last served as President. These include the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, Russia’s second invasion of Ukraine, and, most notably, a recent surge in inter-regional cooperation. While the 45th U.S. President was familiar with Central Asia, a revitalized and strategic approach is now essential to reinvigorate the momentum of past engagements and to take advantage of new opportunities. Such an approach would advance U.S. interests in the rapidly evolving Trans-Caspian region, which bridges the Caucasus and Central Asia and serves as a critical nexus connecting Asia, Europe, and the Global South. 

CPC's Senior Fellow Dr. Eric Rudenshiold's policy paper entitled,  A Trans-Caspian Trajectory: A New U.S. Strategy for Central Asia and the Caucasus, addresses areas of opportunity for the United States in the Caucasus and Central Asia regions, recent developments, potential challenges to enhancing cooperation, and the regional implications of increased United States engagement, along with the policy recommendations for the incoming U.S. administration.

A New U.S. Strategy for Central Asia and the Caucasus