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
The continent is rethinking its reliance on the US, while spending much more money on defense. Now it must sharpen its combat power.
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August 25, 2026
European NATO: How to Attack Russia
The continent is rethinking its reliance on the US, while spending much more money on defense. Now it must sharpen its combat power.
August 25, 2026
Digital Silk Road Builds Big Balkan Shadow
Despite US and European efforts, Chinese telecom suppliers remain entrenched in Serbia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Albania and North Macedonia.
August 24, 2026
How AI-Driven Influence Operations Attack Ukraine
It's not just missiles that are hitting Kyiv. Russia is leveraging Chinese artificial intelligence to spread lies about the conflict.
August 21, 2026
Wind Blows Strong – Amid Political Turbulence
Modern windmills generate much-needed electricity. Consistent regulations and subsidies are required to reach their full potential.
August 19, 2026
The Coded Resistance of Russian Youth
Gen Z shuns Putin’s war and quietly mourns lost freedoms and vanished opportunities.
August 19, 2026
Ukraine’s War After the War
Russia won’t stop its campaign even after the fighting stops, but Ukraine is battle-hardened in more than one way.
August 18, 2026
Whisper Music to Our Weary Spirits
An Alpine classical music festival was a reminder that art can still unify across borders, despite the challenges.
August 17, 2026
Russia’s Nuclear Weapons: Sanctified by God?
The Russian Orthodox Church is an outlier among religious groups in its embrace of, and enthusiasm for, weapons of mass destruction.
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.