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
I was on a train heading for Poland when Russian drones attacked, writes CEPA Fellow Mitzi Perdue. The strikes came shortly after a Kremlin threat to target railroads carrying foreign visitors.
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September 15, 2026
On a Train Under Russian Attack
I was on a train heading for Poland when Russian drones attacked, writes CEPA Fellow Mitzi Perdue. The strikes came shortly after a Kremlin threat to target railroads carrying foreign visitors.
September 14, 2026
Germany: Russia’s Enemy No. 1
Russia’s latest assault on Europe is targeted at its most determined opponents. Governments are still unsure how to respond.
September 14, 2026
Armenia Battles to Buy Time
Putin is pressuring Armenia to make difficult decisions before it loses the ability to pressure a pro-Western government.
September 14, 2026
Kremlin Prepares to Cross the Final Red Line
The majority of Russians oppose forced mobilization to the war in Ukraine, but the Kremlin has been preparing the ground to make it happen.
September 14, 2026
Frontline Arctic: The Evolution of Russia’s Military Posture in a Changing Arctic
Russia is turning the Arctic into a fortress, a frontline, and a contested space. US and NATO allies must understand the risks.
September 11, 2026
Armenia’s Relations With Russia? Worsening
No compromise between the sides is expected and Russian ultimatums remain in place.
September 11, 2026
CEPA Podcast: General (Ret.) Daniel Petrescu on What is Next for the NATO Alliance
Alliance spending, defense innovation, the Black Sea, and more.
September 10, 2026
Dangerous Partners: The Russia-China Military Embrace
Russo-Chinese missile and space cooperation is deeply concerning for Western militaries, and may involve secret protocols that we can only guess at.
September 8, 2026
No Magic Bullet to End Russian Sabotage
Western countries still hope for a simple response to the Kremlin’s rising wave of destruction. Instead, the answer lies in the lessons of the Cold War.