Through the Eastern Lens

Moldova’s Triangle: Transnistria, EU Integration, and Russia’s Shadow

Caught between East and West, Moldova’s future hangs in the balance. As the country strives for EU integration, the unresolved conflict in Transnistria and the ever-present influence of Russia complicate its path. In this episode of Through the Eastern Lens, we explore the deep historical roots of Moldova’s geopolitical dilemma, the energy crisis shaking the breakaway region, and the high-stakes game playing out at Europe’s eastern edge.

Imamoglu’s Arrest: Will It Topple or Cement Erdogan?

Istanbul’s mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has been arrested, sparking mass protests and raising big questions about Turkey’s political future. In this episode of Through the Eastern Lens, we dive into the rise of both Imamoglu and President Erdogan, tracing the roots of today’s deep tensions. Will this arrest mark the beginning of Erdogan’s downfall—or strengthen his grip on power yet again?

When National Security Met Democracy: Romania and the Annulled Elections

Romania’s first-round presidential election in November 2024 delivered a shocking result: a far-right independent candidate came out on top, defying all opinion polls. But what followed was even more dramatic—Romania’s Constitutional Court annulled the results, citing campaign violations and evidence of a hybrid attack by a foreign state. In this week’s episode of Through the Eastern Lens, I unpack what happened and explore a vital question: where is the line between protecting democracy and undermining it?

Back to the Brink: Bosnia between Dayton and Dodik

Nearly 30 years after a devastating war, Bosnia and Herzegovina faces a renewed crisis as the fragile peace is tested by the growing secessionist threat led by Republika Srpska’s president, Milorad Dodik. As tensions rise, is the country once again on the brink? In this week’s episode of Through the Eastern Lens, we unpack the complex history that brought one of the Balkans’ most intricate countries to this precarious moment.

The Prime Minister Who Lived: Robert Fico’s Survival and Slovakia’s Struggles

Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico is a political survivor—ousted from office twice, only to return victorious once again. He even survived an assassination attempt. But can Slovakia’s democracy and rule of law survive his leadership? In this episode of Through the Eastern Lens, we explore how Slovakia transitioned from an EU success story to a nation in crisis.