Prospects 2019

CIS

Moscow will try to maintain formal engagement with Washington despite losing hope of a cardinal change in relations

Conflict resolution and reforms are on hold pending hard-to-predict presidential and legislative elections

The economy is set for unimpressive growth rates, with downside risks including fear of new sanctions

The friendlier atmosphere among regional states is fostering energy cooperation and should boost trade

The Kremlin's top-down solutions may be the wrong approach to discontent with political leadership and institutions

In an already confrontational atmosphere, abandoning nuclear arms treaties will increase mistrust and risky behaviour