Washington’s Pivot to Central Asia Aimed at Damaging Russian Interests

It seems like just yesterday the US practically left Central Asia, closed its bases and ended all missions there. Now, it seems like Washington is back in the game due to political reasons.

One of the main purposes of US State Secretary John Kerry’s visit to Central Asian countries was to reaffirm that the region is ready to act in accordance with US interests.

Recently, the US experienced a number of foreign policy failures, including in Syria and Afghanistan. 

The US’ pivot to Central Asia may be the Obama administration’s last chance to make up for its losses in the international arena.

During his trip, Kerry pledged support to Central Asian countries, including the development of hi-tech industries and financial support for local residents to study English. What is more, the US initiated a new format on the Afghan issue. The foreign ministers of the five Central Asian states and Kerry said the new format will contribute to peace and stability in the region.

However, there are doubts over Washington’s ability to take effective measures to maintain stability in the region.

President Barack Obama approved the extension of US troops in Afghanistan for another year. The latest years prove that could only deepen the crisis.

Some say that Obama’s main goal in Afghanistan is to maintain instability to harm Russia’s interests. From this point of view, there is logic in Obama’s decision.

The fact that Central Asian leaders are ready to cooperate with Washington does not mean they are turning away from Russia as their key partner.
Such international blocs as the Collective Security Treaty Organization, the Eurasian Economic Union are still influential in the region.

This is why, according to some journalists and experts, Kerry’s trip to Central Asia may not provide major political and strategic benefits for Washington.