This week’s analysis highlights some of the most significant geopolitical developments involving America’s adversaries—China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea—between August 15, 2026 and August 22, 2026.
Iran's leaders split over Trump's "Economic D-Day" sanctions threat as economic pressure mounts; Russia ships arms to Iran via the Caspian Sea. Russian drones and a missile strike Romania and Moldova amid escalating hybrid warfare. Russia receives 50+ North Korean ballistic missiles, including new Hwasong-11C models. China advances Scarborough Shoal claims with a new research station. North Korea responds to Trump's outreach with missile tests and mixed signals on denuclearization talks.
Oh, come on! What are you guys peddling today? It’s no secret that Russia said they were going to help Iran but, ‘the world knows’ both N. Korea & China have been aiding Russia. I worked in Intelligence but you do not have to work in intelligence to figure out that when China flys their Xi’ an H6 or their J-16’s fully loaded into Iran with two combat wingmen why would N. Korea or China waste their time diverting equipment through Russia when they have & no doubt will continue to do so? China may not be a super power & they may aspire to becoming a super power but China is distinctly afraid of the USA or Russia.
Always appreciate your geopolitical insights. Excellent coverage.
Thank you Brian! Really appreciate your kind words!
Oh, come on! What are you guys peddling today? It’s no secret that Russia said they were going to help Iran but, ‘the world knows’ both N. Korea & China have been aiding Russia. I worked in Intelligence but you do not have to work in intelligence to figure out that when China flys their Xi’ an H6 or their J-16’s fully loaded into Iran with two combat wingmen why would N. Korea or China waste their time diverting equipment through Russia when they have & no doubt will continue to do so? China may not be a super power & they may aspire to becoming a super power but China is distinctly afraid of the USA or Russia.