MAIN TAKEAWAY OF THE MONTH
NATO has committed to provide reinforcements for the Eastern Flank with Allies are mobilizing troops and equipment in the region, while tensions between the West and Russia remain high, considering the situation at the border, in Eastern Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukraine has been struck by the biggest cyber attack in four years, which targeted government websites. Russia has denied any involvement. Considering the perceived mounting tensions, the US, the UK and Australia have announced that unessential staff along with staff dependents would be evacuated from Ukraine. At the same time, the US has advised and is providing assistance for all its citizens to leave the country. Talks with Russia have started this month but no significant progress has been achieved in de-escalating the crisis. Russia’s security demands, which include removing troops and equipment from the Eastern Flank, were firmly rejected by the US and NATO. The crisis is also placing a strain on the energy industry, particularly the controversial Nord Stream 2 project. Germany has warned that if Moscow launches an attack against Ukraine, the pipeline project would be hurt as part of the sanctions Russia will face. Meanwhile, internal divides continue to plague Bosnia and Herzegovina, as the separatist rhetoric of the Republika Srspka gains support.