Authoritarian powers are challenging the democratic world on every front, using military force, economic coercion, disinformation, and subversion to expand their influence and weaken open societies. Russia and China lead this effort, joined by partners such as Iran and North Korea, in an authoritarian alignment that spans hard security, technology, and the global economy. This hub is the gateway to analysis of the authoritarian threat: Russian aggression and hybrid tactics, Chinese influence over trade and technology, energy coercion, and the campaigns aimed at eroding trust in democratic institutions. Fellows and analysts assess how Russian aggression and Chinese influence reinforce this authoritarian alignment, where these regimes are vulnerable, and how the transatlantic community can push back. Explore analysis and commentary across the threats that authoritarian states pose to Europe and North America.
Authoritarian Threats
Pairing Romania's Black Sea gas with Ukraine's vast storage network can boost the continent's energy security.
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August 13, 2026
Romania’s Gas Surplus? Bury it in Ukraine
Pairing Romania's Black Sea gas with Ukraine's vast storage network can boost the continent's energy security.
August 13, 2026
From Guns to Gulags: The FSB’s Empire Builders
The days when the KGB’s successors were content with plain clothes and concealed weapons are gone — they are much more ambitious these days.
August 13, 2026
Tracking My Son to His Grave: Nina’s Story
There is more evidence of war crimes now than ever before, courtesy of devices in the hands of combatants. What it reveals is heartbreaking.
August 12, 2026
Ukrainian Justice Struggles to Keep Pace with Russia’s Crimes
Ukraine has investigated almost a quarter million atrocities by Russian forces, but its judicial system struggles to meet prosecution demand.
August 10, 2026
America’s AI Advantage Depends on Competition and Compute
Bans on Chinese open-source models will backfire.
August 4, 2026
Who Is Winning the AI Race?
From cyber “breakouts” to new Chinese AI models catching up and a fresh European AI regulation coming into force, the global AI race is accelerating. But who is winning?
August 3, 2026
No Drone Unturned: Ukraine’s Tech Scouts
Ukrainian and foreign fighters with experience of the front are scouring the globe to find the best technology to see off Moscow’s forces.
August 3, 2026
Russia Is Far from Defeated
Despite Ukraine’s multiple successes in recent months, Moscow is increasing pressure on Ukraine’s front lines, cities, and logistics.
July 31, 2026
Russia’s Shadow War Surges Southward
The Kremlin’s on-again-off-again campaign to intimidate and disorientate European allies is picking up once more.