E-International Relations: "Opinion – Moldova: Between Ambitious Plans and Present-Day Challenges"

 

 

 

"Moldova: Between Ambitious Plans and Present-Day Challenges"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Opinion

E-International Relations

8 May 2026

Published: https://www.e-ir.info/2026/05/08/opinion-moldova-between-ambitious-plans-and-present-day-challenges/ 

 Resolving the Republic of Moldova’s separatist issue and joining the European Union are the primary objectives of President Maia Sandu and her administration. Yet, the war between Russia and Ukraine is a constant reminder for Chisinau that there are serious, ever-present day threats to the country’s stability. Russian drones, water pollution, and energy security are daily threats and concerns for the Moldovan population and government; these challenges could also delay Moldova’s preparations for European Union membership. While Moldova has not become a target of the hostilities, incidents continue to occur. Specifically, suspected Russian uncrewed aerial systems (UAS, commonly known as drones) and missiles have been detected flying through Moldovan airspace, while some drones have crashed on Moldovan territory – a reminder that the frontlines of the war are not far away.

Future Warfare Magazine: " MDM 2026: Marines discuss short-term goals of UGV technology, Forterra & AM General unveil prototypes "

 

 

" MDM 2026: Marines discuss short-term goals of UGV technology, Forterra & AM General unveil prototypes"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare Magazine

6 May 2026

Published: https://www.fw-mag.com/shownews/1061/mdm-2026-marines-discuss-short-term-goals-of-ugv-technology-forterra-amp-am-general-unveil-prototypes  

Keep autonomy technology simple and focus on logistics: that was the overall message at the Autonomy/ Collaborative Autonomy/ Autonomy Afloat panel at the recently concluded Modern Day Marine (MDM) expo in Washington, DC. The speaker, US Marine Colonel Kenneth Jones, Division Director for Science & Technology at the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (MCWL), specifically referred to uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs) and how industry should start by focusing on logistics and then evolve the technology.

Shephard: "HHI poised to start submarine production in Peru pending election outcome"

 

 

"HHI poised to start submarine production in Peru pending election outcome"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Naval Warfare

Shephard

6 May, 2026

Published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/naval-warfare/hhi-poised-start-submarine-production-peru-election-outcome/ 

South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries confirmed to Shephard that the company is awaiting the Peruvian government’s decision to allow it to move forward with the production of the HDS-1500 submarine. 

 

Future Warfare: " SAS 2026: New technologies to support the fleet "

 

 

" SAS 2026: New technologies to support the fleet "

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare

28 April  2026

Published: https://www.fw-mag.com/shownews/1044/sas-2026-new-technologies-to-support-the-fleet 

 

The development of major naval technologies, such as warships and submarines, tends to dominate the news cycle. However, niche technologies are just as important for helping the fleet operate effectively. FW MAG spoke with several defense companies prior to and during the recent Sea Air Space (SAS) summit outside Washington, DC, about new systems and contracts for high-tech technology to support the US Navy. 

Warsight: "US SOUTHCOM establishes Autonomous Warfare Command"

 

 

 "US SOUTHCOM establishes Autonomous Warfare Command"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Warsight

29 April, 2026

Published: https://warsight.com/2026/04/29/southcom-autonomous-warfare-command-est/

On 21 April 2026, US Southern Command announced the creation of its Autonomous Warfare Command (SAWC), a new entity tasked with deploying unmanned and autonomous systems across Latin America and the Caribbean. The move signals a deliberate shift in how the Pentagon plans to develop, test and deploy autonomous systems across Latin America and the Caribbean.

 

Future Warfare: " MDM 2026: Teledyne FLIR Defense and Emesent team up "

 

" MDM 2026: Teledyne FLIR Defense and Emesent team up "

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare Magazine

29 April 2026

Published: https://www.fw-mag.com/shownews/1047/mdm-2026-teledyne-flir-defense-and-emesent-team-up

 

Teledyne FLIR Defense and Emesent are unveiling a new integrated uncrewed solution at the Modern Day Marine 2026 (MDM) expo in Washington, DC, for troops to safely inspect contested and sensitive locations, even in GPS-denied environments. FW MAG spoke with Stefan Hrabar, co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Emesent, and Chris Brown, Director of Strategic Initiatives for Teledyne FLIR Defense Unmanned Systems-North America, about what this partnership means and why the US Marines Corps and other services should be interested in it.

At its core, the integrated solution entails installing Emesent’s Hovermap LiDAR Payload on Teledyne FLIR’s SKYRANGER R70 or R80D SKYRAIDER uncrewed aerial systems (UASs), the SUGV 325 small uncrewed ground vehicle, or radiation detection platforms like the MUVE R430. Hovermap is designed for recording and 3D mapping in GPS-denied locations, such as tunnels, urban structures, or areas contaminated with chemical, biological, radioactive, or nuclear (CBRN) materials. Hovermap uses the LiDAR-based Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) software.

 

Future Warfare: " SAS 2026: Partnerships announced to develop Uncrewed Maritime Systems "

  

" SAS 2026: Partnerships announced to develop Uncrewed Maritime Systems "

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare Magazine

27 April, 2026

Published: https://www.fw-mag.com/shownews/1039/sas-2026-partnerships-announced-to-develop-uncrewed-maritime-systems 

Two major defense partnerships to develop uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) were announced during the recently concluded Sea Air Space expo, held at the National Harbor outside of Washington, DC. Hanwha USA will team up with Magnet Defense, while Anduril is teaming up with Kraken, HD Hyundai, and Edison Chouest Offshore.

The first announcement came from Hanwha Defense USA and Magnet Defense. The two companies will team up to manufacture an 11.5 m (38-foot) medium uncrewed surface vessel (MUSV).

 

The National Interest: "Why Azerbaijan and Iran Stepped Away from Confrontation"

 

 

"Why Azerbaijan and Iran Stepped Away from Confrontation"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Silk Road Rivalries

The National Interest

25 April, 2026

Published: https://nationalinterest.org/blog/silk-road-rivalries/why-azerbaijan-and-iran-stepped-away-from-confrontation 

 

The presence of a large Azerbaijani community in Iran may have defused tensions between Baku and Tehran.

Whatever the future of the current war and Iran will be, the country’s neighbors will have to deal with the consequences and aftermath of this new conflict. One country that has a complex relationship with the Islamic Republic is the Republic of Azerbaijan.

When the war commenced, several analyses expressed concern that the conflict would spill over into the Caucasus and affect the already fragile relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. So far, this has not occurred as both Yerevan and Baku want to remain neutral.

Breaking Defense: " Lockheed limbo in Lima? Firm says Peru is buying F-16s, but questions remain "

 

"Lockheed limbo in Lima? Firm says Peru is buying F-16s, but questions remain"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Breaking Defense

24 April, 2026

Published: https://breakingdefense.com/2026/04/schrodingers-f-16s-lockheed-says-peru-is-buying-fighters-questions-remain-in-lima/

Peru's interim president indicated the deal was on hold, as the US Embassy in Lima insists at least part of it has already been signed.

WASHINGTON — Lockheed Martin has claimed victory in a longstanding competition to sell fighter jets to Peru, though senior officials in Lima appear to be at odds with each other over the fate of the deal.

Lockheed “welcomes the Government of Peru’s announcement to purchase 12 new F-16 Block 70 aircraft to modernize the nation’s fighter fleet and strengthen its national defense capabilities,” the American aerospace giant said in a press release on Thursday.

 

Future Warfare Magazine: " SAS 2026: BlackSea Tech unveils new COMET USV "

  

" SAS 2026: BlackSea Tech unveils new COMET USV "

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare Magazine

24 April, 2026

Published: https://www.fw-mag.com/shownews/1035/sas-2026-blacksea-tech-unveils-new-comet-usv 

 

At the Sea Air Space expo in Washington, D.C., BlackSea Technologies unveiled its new COMET Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV). Additionally, the company showcased Gen II of its Global Reconnaissance Craft (GARC) called the CHASER, a small USV (sUSV). BlackSea spokesperson Jason Salata spoke with FW MAG at SAS about how modularity makes both systems ideal for a variety of missions, as many of their systems are already field- and combat-tested.

COMET is a large USV with multiple capabilities. The USV is 13.1 meters (43 feet) long, with a max speed of over 45 knots and the capability to carry 4,535 kg (10,000 pounds) in payload. At SAS, the platform displayed had two HELLFIRE missiles, two M-9X SIDEWINDER missiles, a Leonardo DRS RADA radar system, and even a second payload bay for a gun system. “The missile capability makes COMET ideal for air defense missions,” Salata told FW MAG.

 

CSIS: "Beyond Venezuela and Cuba: The U.S. Military’s Future Operations in the Western Hemisphere "

 

 "Beyond Venezuela and Cuba: The U.S. Military’s Future Operations in the Western Hemisphere"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Americas Program

Center for Strategic and International Studies

23 April, 2026

Published: https://www.csis.org/analysis/beyond-venezuela-and-cuba-us-militarys-future-operations-western-hemisphere 

After Operation Absolute Resolve, which resulted in the extraction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, the White House is increasing pressure on Cuba for some type of political change. Whether the U.S. military will also be deployed in some capacity to the Caribbean island remains to be seen; much will depend on a potential renewed conflict with Iran.

While these three hotspots continue to make headlines, the U.S. military is also expanding its presence across Latin America and the Caribbean. Combating drug-trafficking will continue to be a priority for Washington, and the U.S. military will be heavily involved in this mission.

 

Future Warfare Magazine: " SAS 2026: MARTAC announces upcoming USV delivery to the Philippines, new projects "

 

 

" SAS 2026: MARTAC announces upcoming USV delivery to the Philippines, new projects "

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare Magazine

23 April, 2024

Published: https://www.fw-mag.com/shownews/1032/sas-2026-martac-announces-upcoming-usv-delivery-to-the-philippines-new-projects 

At the Sea Air Space expo at the National Harbor, outside of Washington, DC, FW MAG spoke with Seamus Flatley, Chief Growth Officer at the Florida-based MARTAC Systems. The company discussed with FW Mag its upcoming deliveries and projects to expand its family of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) for new missions.

The company delivered one DEVIL RAY T-38 and four T-12 USVs to the Philippine Navy in July of 2024. Two additional T-38s will be delivered in May of this year, MARTAC confirmed exclusively to FW MAG. Flatley added that his company has “ongoing discussions about future opportunities with the Armed Forces of the Philippines.” The T-38s are equipped with the launch-and-recovery system manufactured by the Israeli company Sealartec.

 

Quoted in azattyqasia " «Мы теряем крупнейший внутренний водоём в мире». Что происходит с Каспием и можно ли остановить обмеление?" / ""We Are Losing the World's Largest Inland Body of Water." What Is Happening to the Caspian—and Can Its Shrinking Be Stopped?"

 

 "«Мы теряем крупнейший внутренний водоём в мире». Что происходит с Каспием и можно ли остановить обмеление?/  ""We Are Losing the World's Largest Inland Body of Water." What Is Happening to the Caspian—and Can Its Shrinking Be Stopped?"

 By Khadisha Akayeva

 For Azattyq Asia

21April, 2026

Published: https://www.azattyqasia.org/a/my-teryaem-krupneyshiy-vnutrenniy-vodoyom-v-mire-chto-proishodit-s-kaspiem-i-mozhno-li-ostanovit-obmelenie/33736363.html 

 

Уайлдер Алехандро Санчес, президент консалтинговой компании Second Floor Strategies в Вашингтоне, рассказывает, что 15 апреля присутствовал на закрытом круглом столе Atlantic Council в Вашингтоне, куда была приглашена высокопоставленная казахстанская правительственная делегация. По его словам, несколько участников делегации подтвердили участие в саммите лидеров пяти стран Центральной Азии, руководства Монголии и Армении, а также премьер-министра Азербайджана. 

 

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez, President of the Washington-based consulting firm Second Floor Strategies, reports that on April 15, he attended a closed-door roundtable hosted by the Atlantic Council in Washington, to which a high-ranking Kazakhstani government delegation had been invited. According to him, several members of the delegation confirmed the participation of the leaders of the five Central Asian nations, the leadership of Mongolia and Armenia, as well as the Prime Minister of Azerbaijan, in the summit.

 

 

 

Future Warfare: " SAS 2026: LEONIDAS HPM C-UxS system has successful tests "

 

 

" SAS 2026: LEONIDAS HPM C-UxS system has successful tests "

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare

22 April 2026

Published:  https://www.fw-mag.com/shownews/1030/sas-2026-leonidas-hpm-c-uxs-system-has-successful-tests

Epirus, the producer of LEONIDAS, a high-power microwave (HPM) counter-uncrewed system (C-UxS) platform, is advancing across multiple fronts in 2026. Besides integrating its LEONIDAS HPM system with GDLS & Kodiak AI and seeking to break into the Latin America market, the company is also working on a maritime version: enter LEONIDAS H2O. 

Future Warfare Magazine: " SAS 2026: Saildrone unveils new SPECTRE USV "

 

" SAS 2026: Saildrone unveils new SPECTRE USV "

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare Magazine

21 April, 2026

Published: https://www.fw-mag.com/shownews/1026/sas-2026-saildrone-unveils-new-spectre-usv 

At the Sea Air Space (SAS) expo outside Washington, DC, Saildrone unveiled the design of its brand-new SPECTRE uncrewed surface vessel (USV). FW MAG attended a media briefing with Saildrone at SAS on Monday, 20 April, to learn more about SPECTRE. 

Future Warfare Magazine: " SAS 2026: Airbus successfully tests H145 autonomous helicopter "

  

" SAS 2026: Airbus successfully tests H145 autonomous helicopter "

 Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare Magazine

20 April 2026

Published: https://www.fw-mag.com/shownews/1020/sas-2026-airbus-successfully-tests-h145-autonomous-helicopter 

Airbus US Space and Defense announced on 15 April the fourth autonomous flight test of an H145 helicopter. Prior to the Sea Air Space expo, which will take place at the National Harbor, close to Washington, DC, on 20-22 April, FW MAG spoke with Carl Forsling, Senior Director for Strategy and Business Development at Airbus, about this new test and how the company’s autonomous rotary-wing aircraft can assist the US armed forces, particularly the Marines.

The Diplomat: " Setting Realistic Expectations for Kazakhstan’s Regional Ecological Summit "

 

 

"Setting Realistic Expectations for Kazakhstan’s Regional Ecological Summi"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Crossroads Asia

The Diplomat

20 April, 2026

Published: https://thediplomat.com/2026/04/setting-realistic-expectations-for-kazakhstans-regional-ecological-summit/ 

The Regional Ecological Summit could kickstart a wider climate activism campaign in the greater Central Asian region, or it could just be a short-term, pro-green mirage.

Global Encyclodia of Territorial Rights: "Moldova / #Transnistria “ #FrozenConflict” and Russia's Invasion of Ukraine "

"Moldova/Transnistria “Frozen Conflict” and Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Global Encyclopedia of Territorial Rights

(Springer Nature) 

 14 April, 2026

Published: https://link.springer.com/rwe/10.1007/978-3-319-68846-6_868-1

▶️ While initiatives to resolve the “frozen conflict” have not been successful, developments across the region have put this conflict at the forefront of European geopolitics.

▶️ Specifically, the February 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine has made Moldova and separatist Transnistria (which borders Ukraine) the recipients of a new wave of international attention.

▶️ Ultimately, the relationship between Chisinau and Tiraspol has not changed, or at least improved, since the war commenced, though the 2025 gas crisis has changed the power-dynamics between the two sides, on Chisinau’s favor.

▶️ Communication between the two sides of the Dniester River continues, but it is unlikely that any breakthrough in negotiations will occur at this time.

Zona Militar: "Contra-UAV: Epirus entabla contactos con Colombia y también trabaja con GDLS y Kodiak AI en el Leonidas AGV" / "

 

 "Contra-UAV: Epirus entabla contactos con Colombia y también trabaja con GDLS y Kodiak AI en el Leonidas AGV"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

11 de Abril, 2026

Publicado: https://www.zona-militar.com/2026/04/11/contra-uav-epirus-entabla-contactos-con-colombia-y-tambien-trabaja-con-gdls-y-kodiak-ai-en-el-leonidas-agv/ 

 Tres importantes empresas de defensa, Epirus, General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) y Kodiak AI, se han asociado para desarrollar un nuevo vehículo autónomo para misiones contra vehículos aéreos no tripulados (Counter-UAV): el Leonidas Autonomous Ground Vehicle (AGV). El vehículo fue presentado en la reciente exposición AUSA Global Force Symposium & Exhibition en Alabama. Zona Militar conversó con Andrew Wargofchik, portavoz de Epirus, sobre el Leonidas AGV y los proyectos de la empresa en América Latina.

 

 

Geopolitical Monitor: Oil Dependency in Wartime: Malaysia and the Iran War

 

 

"Oil Dependency in Wartime: Malaysia and the Iran War"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Geopolitical Monitor 

9 April 2026 

Published: https://www.geopoliticalmonitor.com/oil-dependency-in-wartime-malaysia-and-the-iran-war/ 

 

The war in Iran appears to be paused, for now, as the United States and the Islamic Republic have announced a two-week ceasefire. It is unclear whether this ceasefire will hold or if hostilities will resume. In the meantime, countries that rely on energy and other resources from the Middle East will be quick to send their tankers and cargo ships across the Strait of Hormuz to replenish their much-needed energy reserves at home.

Curiously, just prior to the announcement of the ceasefire (and US President Trump’s threat of annihilating Iran as a country), when the Strait was still closed, the government of Malaysia announced an agreement with Tehran to allow the safe passage of Malaysia-bound ships through the contested Strait. This development warrants discussion to understand how governments have navigated this tense situation and the importance of energy diversification.

Future Warfare: " Satellite 2026: A focus on portable military SATCOM systems "

 

 

" Satellite 2026: A focus on portable military SATCOM systems"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare Magazine

7 April, 2026

Published: https://www.fw-mag.com/shownews/1004/satellite-2026-a-focus-on-portable-military-satcom-systems 

Several companies that provide military solutions, specifically satellite communication (SATCOM) systems, were present at the recent Satellite 2026 expo, held in Washington, DC, from 23-26 March.

FW MAG visited the SatShow to review new mobile SATCOM systems for both vehicles and dismounted troops. The evolution of warfare does not involve only new lethal weapons, but also communications systems to ensure that troops on the ground and in the frontlines can communicate quickly and reliably.

 

  

Shephard: "Iran and the future of amphibious operations: crewed and uncrewed solutions"

 

 "Iran and the future of amphibious operations: crewed and uncrewed solutions"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard

1 April, 2026

Published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/naval-warfare/iran-and-the-future-of-amphibious-operations-crewed-and-uncrewed-solutions/ 

 Amphibious operations are a very unique type of military operation, and global defence industries are developing new solutions to enhance capabilities and efficiency.

Thousands of US Marines from the 11^th and 31^st Expeditionary Units are currently en route to the Middle East aboard US warships, in addition to the 82^nd Airborne Division. It is believed there is a strong possibility that the US government could carry out a ground operation in Iran, including Kharg Island, to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. 

 

Future Warfare: "Controlling the Maritime Swarm: are we there yet?"

 

 

"Controlling the Maritime Swarm: are we there yet?"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Future Warfare Magazine

 FW Mag 2/26

P 58 - 63 

Published: https://www.fw-mag.com/magazine 

 

 

Zona Militar: "EagleNXT will deliver drones to the US Army. Will Latin America be next?" / "EagleNXT entregará nuevos drones eBee Vision al Ejército de EE.UU.: ¿América Latina será el próximo paso?"

 

 

 "EagleNXT will deliver drones to the US Army. Will Latin America be next?"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

27 March, 2026 

 Published: https://www.zona-militar.com/en/2026/03/27/eaglenxt-will-deliver-drones-to-the-us-army-will-latin-america-be-next/

The US defense company EagleNXT has announced a contract with the US Army to deliver its eBee Vision drone, designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations as well as training missions. Specifically, the company will supply two drones for “advanced training and operator readiness programs.” Zona Militar had an exclusive conversation with Bill Irby, CEO of EagleNXT, about the company’s current and future plans.

 

"EagleNXT entregará nuevos drones eBee Vision al Ejército de EE.UU.: ¿América Latina será el próximo paso?"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

27 de Marzo del 2026 

Publicado:  https://www.zona-militar.com/2026/03/27/eaglenxt-entregara-nuevos-drones-ebee-vision-al-ejercito-de-ee-uu-america-latina-sera-el-proximo-paso/

La empresa de defensa estadounidense EagleNXT ha anunciado un contrato con el Ejército de los Estados Unidos para entregar su drone eBee Vision, diseñado para operaciones de inteligencia, vigilancia y reconocimiento (ISR), así como para misiones de entrenamiento. Específicamente, la compañía suministrará dos drones para “programas avanzados de entrenamiento y preparación de operadores”. Zona Militar mantuvo una conversación exclusiva con Bill Irby, CEO de EagleNXT, sobre los planes actuales y futuros de la empresa. 

CAP: "Kazakhstan’s Regional Ecological Summit: A Turning Point for Environmental Protection?"

 

 

"Kazakhstan’s Regional Ecological Summit: A Turning Point for Environmental Protection?"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

CAP Policy Brief 

Central Asia Program - George Washington University

19 March, 2026

Published: https://centralasiaprogram.org/publications-all/research-updates/kazakhstans-regional-ecological-summit-a-turning-point-for-environmental-protection/ 

 

Central Asia faces a range of environmental challenges, including extreme temperature fluctuations, water insecurity, environmental degradation, deforestation, air pollution, and melting glaciers. The legacy of the Soviet Union’s nuclear tests also continues to affect the region. Climate change is exacerbating many of these challenges even as governments pursue a green energy transition. The loss of the Aral Sea, which nowadays resembles a series of interconnected lakes, is a grim reminder of the consequences of inaction or insufficient environmental protection; today, the Aral is estimated to be just 10% of its 1950s size.

Addressing these issues is critical not only for environmental protection but also for sustaining Central Asia’s growing population and expanding international connectivity. However, the region’s environmental challenges are highly complex, as they often intersect with regional geopolitics; moreover, some regional governments do not appear to prioritize environmental protection. To address these issues in a multilateral setting, Kazakhstan will host the high-level Regional Ecological Summit (RES-26) from April 22-24. The summit must be more than another forum for discussion and diplomatic photo opportunities. Astana must take a leadership role by convincing its neighbors across the Greater Central Asia region and international partners to focus more on environmental protection, particularly water security, for the sake of not just Kazakhstan but the entire region.

 

Quoted in: "Beyond a ‘buffer zone’: how the Iran war is recalibrating Central Asian ties"

 

 

"Beyond a ‘buffer zone’: how the Iran war is recalibrating Central Asian ties"

By: Cao Jiaxuan

South China Morning Post 

15 March, 2026 

Published: https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3346611/beyond-buffer-zone-how-iran-war-recalibrating-central-asian-ties

The former Soviet republics are leveraging diplomatic fallout from conflict to assert autonomy and balance major powers, observers say

 

Modern Diplomacy: "New beginnings: Moldova withdraws from the CIS"

 

 "New beginnings: Moldova withdraws from the CIS"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Modern Diplomacy

14 March, 2026

Published: https://moderndiplomacy.eu/2026/03/14/new-beginnings-moldova-withdraws-from-the-cis/

The Republic of Moldova announced in early March that the process to withdraw from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) is moving forward. The decision to leave this bloc highlights Moldova’s foreign policy strategy of reducing ties with Russia while increasing engagement with European organizations.

Kapital.kz "Инвестиции, транзит и промышленная переработка"

 

"Инвестиции, транзит и промышленная переработка"

" Investments, transit and industrial processing"

Interview with Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Kapital.kz

6 March, 2026

Published: https://kapital.kz/economic/145709/investicii-tranzit-i-promyshlennaya-pererabotka.html 

 

Внешнеэкономическая повестка Казахстана все меньше сводится к отдельным переговорам и все больше напоминает управляемую систему, где дипломатия связана с инвестиционными институтами, отраслевыми проектами и инфраструктурой. В этой логике одновременно решаются несколько задач: укрепление предсказуемости правил для бизнеса, развитие транзита по Срединному коридору, запуск перерабатывающих производств в АПК, продвижение технологичных проектов в социальной сфере и усиление авиационной связности. Итог здесь измеряется не громкостью заявлений, а тем, насколько устойчиво страна переводит договоренности в работающие механизмы и реальные мощности. О том, что в этой модели выглядит сильным, а где сохраняются риски исполнения, мы поговорили с Уайлдером Алехандро Санчесом, президентом консалтинговой компании Second Floor Strategies в Вашингтоне, который работает на стыке геополитики, торговли и инвестиционной повестки по Центральной Азии.

Источник: https://kapital.kz/economic/145709/investicii-tranzit-i-promyshlennaya-pererabotka.html 

Zona Militar: "The future of the US military’s dismounted troops" / "El futuro de las tropas desmontadas de las Fuerzas Armadas de Estados Unidos"

 

 

"The future of the US military’s dismounted troops"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

10 March, 2026

Published: https://www.zona-militar.com/en/2026/03/10/the-future-of-the-us-militarys-dismounted-troops/

 

 

 "El futuro de las tropas desmontadas de las Fuerzas Armadas de Estados Unidos"

 Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

10 de Marzo, 2026

Publicado: https://www.zona-militar.com/2026/03/10/el-futuro-de-las-tropas-desmontadas-de-las-fuerzas-armadas-de-estados-unidos/ 

Zona Militar: "FIDAE 2026: L3Harris wants to discuss Viper Shield EW with F-16 operators" / "FIDAE 2026: L3Harris presentará el sistema de guerra electrónica Viper Shield para equipar a los F-16 de las Fuerzas Aéreas sudamericanas"

 

 "FIDAE 2026: L3Harris wants to discuss Viper Shield EW with F-16 operators"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

6 March, 2026

Published: https://www.zona-militar.com/en/2026/03/06/fidae-2026-l3harris-wants-to-discuss-viper-shield-ew-with-f-16-operators/

 

"FIDAE 2026: L3Harris presentará el sistema de guerra electrónica Viper Shield para equipar a los F-16 de las Fuerzas Aéreas sudamericanas"

 Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

6 de Marzo del 2026

Published: https://www.zona-militar.com/2026/03/06/fidae-2026-l3harris-presentara-el-sistema-de-guerra-electronica-viper-shield-para-equipar-a-los-f-16-de-las-fuerzas-aereas-sudamericanas/ 

Geopolitical Monitor: "Language Geopolitics: New Constitution Looks to Elevate Kazakh Vis-à-vis Russian"

 

"Language Geopolitics: New Constitution Looks to Elevate Kazakh Vis-à-vis Russian"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Opinion

Geopolitical Monitor

27 February, 2026

Published: https://www.geopoliticalmonitor.com/language-geopolitics-new-constitution-looks-to-elevate-kazakh-vis-a-vis-russian/

 On March 15, the citizens of Kazakhstan will vote in a referendum for a new Constitution. The new document pays significant attention to sovereignty, an important concept across Eurasia (and in Europe too). Moreover, the Constitution will establish the Kazakh language as the country’s dominant language. This is not just a symbolic decision; it will affect the future education of Kazakhstanis, their national identity, and is already affecting relations with the country’s large northern neighbor.

 

Shephard: "The US military is expanding its efforts to modernise mortar technology"

 

"The US military is expanding its efforts to modernise mortar technology"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard

26 February, 2026

Published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/us-military-expanding-efforts-modernise-mortar-technology/ 

A growing push towards increasing mobility and lethality across forces can be seen in recent contracts and modernisation efforts, with advancing mortar technology playing an integral role in modern warfare.

Future Warfare Magazine: "NarcoDrones fly across #Latin American skies, with lethal payloads"

 

"NarcoDrones  fly across #Latin American skies, with lethal payloads"

Future Warfare Magazine

Issue: 01/2026

Published: Https://fw-mag.com/

 

Zona Militar: "¿Deberían las Fuerzas Armadas de América Latina interesarse en el nano drone Black Hornet 4?"

 

 "Should Latin America be interested in the Black Hornet 4 nano drone?"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

20 February, 2026

Published:  https://www.zona-militar.com/en/2026/02/20/should-latin-america-be-interested-in-the-black-hornet-4-nano-drone/

 

"¿Deberían las Fuerzas Armadas de América Latina interesarse en el nano drone Black Hornet 4?"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

20 de Febrero, 2026

Publicado: https://www.zona-militar.com/2026/02/20/deberian-las-fuerzas-armadas-de-america-latina-interesarse-en-el-nano-drone-black-hornet-4/ 

 

Zona Militar: "La Guardia Costera de EE.UU. moderniza su flota aérea y de superficie con la actualización de sus HC-130J y la construcción de nuevos rompehielos"

 

"La Guardia Costera de EE.UU. moderniza su flota aérea y de superficie con la actualización de sus HC-130J y la construcción de nuevos rompehielos"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

18 February, 2026

Publicado: https://www.zona-militar.com/2026/02/18/la-guardia-costera-de-ee-uu-moderniza-su-flota-aerea-y-de-superficie-con-la-actualizacion-de-sus-hc-130j-y-la-construccion-de-nuevos-rompehielos/

"US Coast upgrades aerial & surface fleet, and icebreakers are on the way"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

18 de Febrero del 2026

Publicado: https://www.zona-militar.com/en/2026/02/18/us-coast-upgrades-aerial-surface-fleet-and-icebreakers-are-on-the-way/

Anadolu "Is Elon Musk’s Starlink a national security threat?"

 

"Is Elon Musk’s Starlink a national security threat?"

By Efe Ozkan

Anadolu News Agency

16 February, 2026

Published: https://x.com/anadoluagency/status/2023407267299959033  

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kwJiihD3JVY?si=ai80cy900os5z7gj

Zona Militar: " Textron presenta el MMUSV mientras la Armada de EE. UU. anuncia una nueva estrategia para la adopción de sistemas no tripulados" / "Textron unveils MMUSV as US Navy announces new strategy"

 

 "Textron presenta el MMUSV mientras la Armada de EE. UU. anuncia una nueva estrategia para la adopción de sistemas no tripulados"

 Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

12 de Febrero del 2026

Publicado: https://www.zona-militar.com/2026/02/12/textron-presenta-el-mmusv-mientras-la-armada-de-ee-uu-anuncia-una-nueva-estrategia-para-la-adopcion-de-sistemas-no-tripulados/

 

"Textron unveils MMUSV as US Navy announces new strategy"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

12 February 2026

Published:  https://www.zona-militar.com/en/2026/02/12/textron-unveils-mmusv-as-us-navy-announces-new-strategy/

DW: "Редкоземельные металлы: что Центральная Азия предлагает США?" / "Rare Earth Metals: What Does Central Asia Offer the US?"

 

 "Редкоземельные металлы: что Центральная Азия предлагает США?"

 By: Екатерина Хван / Ekaterina Khvan

DW

10 February, 2026 

Published: https://www.dw.com/ru/redkozemelnye-metally-v-centralnoj-azii-cto-predlagaut-ssa/a-75895880 

США проявляют интерес к критически важным ресурсам в Центральной Азии. Эксперты считают, что для стран региона это шанс на инвестиции и технологическое развитие, но одновременно растут и геополитические риски.

 Стратегический интерес США и перспективы сотрудничества

С тем, что стратегический интерес США в регионе связан, в первую очередь, с Китаем, согласен и Уайлдер Алехандро Санчес (Wilder Alejandro Sánchez), президент Second Floor Strategies, консалтинговой компании в Вашингтоне, округ Колумбия, соавтор отчета "Использование редкоземельных элементов Центральной Азии для экономического роста". "Администрация Трампа по-прежнему рассматривает Китай и его промышленность как конкурента или угрозу, и руководство обеих партий стремится сломать глобальную монополию Китая на критические минералы и редкоземельные элементы", - объясняет он.

Санчес напоминает, что на встрече в Вашингтоне присутствовали, в том числе, Казахстан и Узбекистан. Последний подписал меморандум о взаимопонимании по критически важным минералам и редкоземельным элементам. Астана и Вашингтон подписали аналогичный меморандум еще в ноябре 2025 года. Эти инициативы открывают возможности для более тесного сотрудничества США со странами региона.

Тем не менее, по мнению Санчеса, перспективы взаимодействия США с регионом остаются довольно сложными: лидерами процесса будут Казахстан и Узбекистан. При этом он сомневается в заинтересованности Кыргызстана и Таджикистана, хотя не исключает, что Душанбе может стремиться к большему объему инвестиций. Туркменистан, как предполагает эксперт, будет действовать более осторожно.

 

E-IR: "Can Kazakhstan’s Regional Ecological Summit Save the Caspian Sea?"

 

"Can Kazakhstan’s Regional Ecological Summit Save the Caspian Sea?"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

E-IR

10 February, 2026 

Published: https://www.e-ir.info/2026/02/10/can-kazakhstans-regional-ecological-summit-save-the-caspian-sea/

 

Kazakhstan will host the Regional Ecological Summit this April. The high-level event will address areas like climate transition, adaptation, and economic resilience; food security; sustainable management of water resources; and combating air pollution. This is a great opportunity for Kazakhstan to consolidate its regional leadership by addressing Central Asian and Eurasian environmental challenges. For the Summit to truly have an impact, however, it must include tangible programs and policies, not just conceptual talking points. Water security is a sensitive issue for landlocked Central Asia. Climate change, population growth, and the mismanagement of water resources make the Summit even more important and timely, as water resources need to be protected and responsibly shared.

Azattyq Asia " «Гол в свои ворота». Западный инвестор ушел из добывающего проекта, обвинив Казахстан в игре не по правилам"

 

  "«Гол в свои ворота». Западный инвестор ушел из добывающего проекта, обвинив Казахстан в игре не по правилам"

By: Азаттык Азия

Azattyq Asia

10 February, 2026

Published: https://www.azattyqasia.org/a/zapadnyy-investor-ushel-iz-dobyvayuschego-proekta-obviniv-kazahstan/33671482.html

 

Президент Second Floor Strategies, консалтинговой компании из Вашингтона Уайлдер Алехандро Санчес полагает, что причина кроется не только в строительстве в Казахстане АЭС, но и в планах по сохранению внутри страны доходов от урана, цена и спрос на который в мире растет.

«Решение Астаны выглядит разумным, поскольку правительство стремится защитить "Казатомпром" и обеспечить, чтобы доходы от минеральных ресурсов Казахстана (в частности урана) оставались в стране. "Казатомпром" планирует сократить добычу урана примерно на 10 процентов в 2026 году, чтобы избежать перенасыщения рынка при недостаточном спросе, однако это решение изменится по мере восстановления роста спроса в ближайшем будущем», — говорит Санчес.

При этом в целом решение аналитик оценивает неоднозначно — из-за влияния на имидж страны и геополитических рисков.

 

Zona Militar: "Allen-Vanguard announces the sale of new electronic countermeasure systems to a South American military" / "Allen-Vanguard entregará nuevos sistemas de contramedidas Equinox NG y Scorpion 2 a las Fuerzas Armadas de un país Sudamericano"

"Allen-Vanguard announces the sale of new electronic countermeasure systems to a South American military"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

10 February, 2026

Published: https://www.zona-militar.com/en/2026/02/10/allen-vanguard-announces-the-sale-of-new-electronic-countermeasure-systems-to-a-south-american-military/

Allen-Vanguard, a producer of Electronic Countermeasures (ECM), announced on 5 February that it has received a multi-million-dollar order for its Equinox NG and Scorpion 2 ECM systems. The client is an undisclosed South American military. Zona Militar had an exclusive interview with Bobby Strawbridge, President of Allen-Vanguard, to discuss this sale and the future.

 

"Allen-Vanguard entregará nuevos sistemas de contramedidas Equinox NG y Scorpion 2 a las Fuerzas Armadas de un país Sudamericano"

 Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

10 de Febrero del 2026

Publicado:  https://www.zona-militar.com/2026/02/10/allen-vanguard-entregara-nuevos-sistemas-de-contramedidas-equinox-ng-y-scorpion-2-a-las-fuerzas-armadas-de-un-pais-sudamericano/

Allen-Vanguard, fabricante de sistemas de Contramedidas Electrónicas (ECM), anunció el pasado 5 de febrero que ha recibido un pedido multimillonario para sus sistemas ECM Equinox NG y Scorpion 2. El cliente es una fuerza armada sudamericana cuya identidad no fue revelada. Zona Militar mantuvo una entrevista exclusiva con Bobby Strawbridge, presidente de Allen-Vanguard, para dialogar sobre esta venta y las perspectivas a futuro.

 

Shephard: "Latin American air forces look beyond fighters to revamp transport aircraft fleets"

 

 

"Latin American air forces look beyond fighters to revamp transport aircraft fleets"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard

4 February, 2026

Published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/air-warfare/latin-american-air-forces-revamp-transport-fleets/ 

 

The Mexican Air Force has become the first Latin American operator of the C-130J Super Hercules, but the service is not alone in acquiring a tactical airlifter in recent months.

Geopolitical Monitor: "Will a Post-Dictatorship Iran Treat Ethnic Azerbaijanis Better?"

 

"Will a Post-Dictatorship Iran Treat Ethnic Azerbaijanis Better?"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Opinion

Geopolitical Monitor

4 February, 2026

Published: https://www.geopoliticalmonitor.com/will-a-post-dictatorship-iran-treat-ethnic-azerbaijanis-better/ 

 The population of Iran continues to take to the streets, demanding liberty, a better life, and dignity. Similarly, the Iranian government continues to resort to repressive and violent counter-measures to crack down on protesters. At the time of writing, the number of deaths number is estimated in the thousands. It is still unclear whether the Iranian government will remain in power – Tehran has survived other major uprisings in recent years – or if a transition will occur.

It is important to keep in mind that Iran has a very diverse population. Persians comprise the majority, but there are many minorities and ethnic groups. Tehran’s repressive activities make no distinction among protesters. This analysis will discuss the ongoing Iran crisis by focusing on the Azerbaijani population of Iran, a critical factor in the ongoing protests.

The National Interest: "Why Donald Trump Should Visit Central Asia in 2026"

 

"Why Donald Trump Should Visit Central Asia in 2026"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

The National Interest

30 January, 2026

Published: https://nationalinterest.org/blog/silk-road-rivalries/why-donald-trump-should-visit-central-asia-in-2026

 

While the White House has paid more attention to Central Asia than past administrations, it is unclear where the region fits on the US priority list. 

Central Asia, due to its vast energy and mineral resources, is of critical importance to China, Europe, Russia, and the United States. While geographically distant, the US government has made important strides in recent years to increase its engagement with Central Asia, including a high-profile 5+1 presidential meeting in Washington in late 2025. It would not just be symbolic, but also very important, if President Donald Trump visited a Central Asian country like Kazakhstan this year, one of the two Central Asian countries that joined Trump’s Board of Peace at the recent Davos conference.

 

 

KazInform: "The government must adapt to the new realities, says an American expert" / Правительство должно адаптироваться к новым реалиям — американский эксперт "

  

"Правительство должно адаптироваться к новым реалиям — американский эксперт" or "The government must adapt to the new realities, says an American expert"

By Rustem Kozhybaev

 KazInform

29 January, 2026

Published: https://www.inform.kz/ru/pravitelstvo-dolzhno-adaptirovatsya-k-novim-realiyam-amerikanskiy-ekspert

 

Правительство — живой организм, и оно должно развиваться и адаптироваться к новым внутренним и глобальным реалиям. Аналогичным образом, все государственные учреждения должны быть модернизированы для более эффективного выполнения своих обязанностей, заявил Уайлдер Алехандро Санчес, президент консалтинговой фирмы «Second Floor Strategies LLC» в Вашингтоне, комментируя политические преобразования в Казахстане, анонсированные на V Национальном курултае, собственному корреспонденту агентства Kazinform.

 

 

Zona Militar: "Oshkosh Defense will deliver additional DXPV Kaaiman to The Netherlands"

 

 

"Oshkosh Defense will deliver additional DXPV Kaaiman to The Netherlands"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

23 January, 2026

Published: https://www.zona-militar.com/en/2026/01/23/oshkosh-defense-will-deliver-additional-dxpv-kaaiman-to-the-netherlands/

 

"Oshkosh Defense entregará vehículos expedicionarios DXPV Kaaiman adicionales a la Infantería de Marina de los Países Bajos"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Zona Militar

23 de Enero del 2026

Publicado: https://www.zona-militar.com/2026/01/23/oshkosh-defense-entregara-vehiculos-expedicionarios-dxpv-kaaiman-adicionales-a-la-infanteria-de-marina-de-los-paises-bajos/ 

 

 

 

NEGlobal: "Moldova’s foreign policy goals for 2026: No unification, but more European integration"

 

 

"Moldova’s foreign policy goals for 2026: No unification, but more European integration"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

NEGlobal

20 January 2026

Published: https://www.neglobal.eu/moldovas-foreign-policy-goals-for-2026-no-unification-but-more-european-integration/

Moldovan President Maia Sandu said in a recent media interview that she would support Moldova’s unification with Romania if the Moldovan population voted in favor of this initiative. While this initiative is unlikely to happen, this statement highlights the strong relations between Chisinau and Bucharest (current and historical).

Furthermore, President Sandu’s statement can also be put in the context of Moldova’s growing engagement with Europe. At the end of 2025, Moldova’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister, Mihai Popsoi, discussed his ministry’s five diplomatic achievements for the year. One new accomplishment is that Moldova is currently the president of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe and will organize a major ministerial summit in May. Moldova’s quest to join the European Union — President Sandu wants her country to join the bloc by the end of the decade — remains steadfast. If the first half of the 2020s can be summarized as Moldova embarking on a European quest, the second half of the decade will cement it.