Putin Visits Kazakhstan Amid Diplomatic Competition in Central Asia

Putin's visit seeks to strengthen Russia's geopolitical ties in a bid to counter escalating courting of Central Asian nations by Western powers and China, amidst recent sanctions due to Ukraine invasion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has embarked on a visit to Kazakhstan to build strategic ties and seek new import routes to circumvent Western sanctions due to actions in Ukraine. This visit follows his recent trips to Kyrgyzstan for an ex-Soviet nations summit, and China.
Putin's visit to oil-rich Kazakhstan occurs amid Western efforts to appeal to Central Asian nations, offering trade and economic benefits to discourage their strong ties with Russia. Regional nations are keen to maintain economic involvement with Russia without recognizing its annexation of Ukraine.
High-ranking officials from Russia, Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan have made diplomatic visits to Central Asia, indicating a global attempt to expand influence in a region traditionally domineered by Russia. The Central Asian countries have started to cultivate new partnerships as Russia's hold over the region decreases.
Western powers such as the EU and the US, along with China, Iran, and Turkey, are vying for influence in Central Asia. The resource-rich Central Asian nations are pursuing partnerships with these powers while trying not to inflame relations with Russia.
While Russia seeks to maintain a stronghold and protect its interests in Central Asia, it faces competition from the growing economic presence of China and increased geopolitical interest from the West. Some analysts suggest that without a change in foreign policy approach, Russia's influence in the region may continue to diminish.