The riots are symptomatic of increased immigration and rising youth unemployment.
Russia wants to boost security to stem the flow of militants and drugs into Central Asia.
A mining sector reform could raise revenue for the state and help poor regions, but timing is key.
An alleged disruption of oil flows between the two countries shows that their quarrels are far from over.
Tbilisi finds itself balancing its growing relationship with Russia and its extant relationship with NATO.
The intervention degraded the militants' abilities but did not eliminate the broader jihadist threat in the region.
Increased militant activity on the peninsula threatens Cairo's credibility, Hamas' rule in Gaza and Israel's southern border.
The battle for Al-Qusayr is part of a larger effort to control the Homs governorate.
