Protests, skirmishes and attacks in 2012 highlight numerous trends affecting the stability of Central Asia.

The Customs Union can gauge Moscow's success in spreading its influence in its former Soviet republics.

Exploration and production projects can be used to claim territory in the heavily disputed sea.

The expansion of Russia's multinational economic grouping is designed to further Moscow's control in its near abroad.

Europe and Turkey have overlapping spheres of influence, particularly in the eastern Mediterranean and the Balkans.

The Geopolitical Calendar is an internal Stratfor document listing significant meetings and events for the next week.

New Delhi announced it would participate in a joint exploration project in disputed waters.

A potential nuclear plant in Belarus is meant to undermine Lithuania's nuclear power ambitions.

A new natural gas deal shows Russia's desire to remain relevant to its major energy customers.

The diffusion of political power in post-Gadhafi Libya means investors must satisfy diverse regional stakeholders.