Articles by Ian Storey

Scarborough Shoal incident: A test for ASEAN, China and regional stability

A recent incident between the Philippine Coast Guard and China’s maritime forces could presage a change in tactics by the latter. If this is so, tensions in the disputed area might head north.

Ian Storey

Southeast Asian countries won’t let war in Ukraine affect ties with Russia

President Donald Trump wants to force an end to the Russia-Ukraine war and improve relations with Russia. Many Southeast Asian countries will welcome an end to hostilities, an easing of US-Russia tensions and stronger relations with Moscow.

Ian Storey

The South China Sea in 2025: More of the same, possibly worse

The prognosis for tensions in the South China Sea dispute this year is pretty straightforward: what has been and is will continue to be so, and perhaps even worse.

Ian Storey

Prabowo’s China visit: Implications for the South China Sea

In one sentence, Jakarta appears to have undermined its longstanding position in the South China Sea.

Ian Storey

Why Southeast Asia should be concerned about North Korean troops in Russia

The arrival of thousands of North Korean troops in Russia represents a serious escalation of the Russia-Ukraine War. Southeast Asian countries should be concerned. They can take action to enforce the sanctions regime against North Korea.

Ian Storey

Will Indonesia-Russia ties strengthen further under President-elect Prabowo?

Defence Minister and President-elect Prabowo Subianto’s visit to Russia on 31 July 2024 was a signal that his administration intends to pursue a balanced foreign policy vis-à-vis the major powers, and one that envisages a bigger role for Russia.

Ian Storey

Malaysia and the South China Sea dispute: A sea change under Prime Minister Anwar?

Despite speculations to the contrary, Malaysia’s position on the South China Sea dispute vis-à-vis China has remained remarkably consistent.

Ian Storey

Vietnam and the Russia-Ukraine war: Hanoi's 'bamboo diplomacy' pays off but challenges remain

The strengthening of the Russia-China strategic nexus affects Vietnam more than any other Southeast Asian country. Hanoi is concerned that Beijing may use its leverage with Moscow to undermine Vietnam's interests in the South China Sea.

Ian Storey

Will Vietnam turn to Russia or America for its new jet fighter?

Vietnam needs to upgrade its ageing fighter fleet. But it faces a list of less than optimal options. Will it go for Russian-made or US-made planes, in consideration of its current diplomatic ties with each?

Ian Storey

The Kra land bridge: Thailand's white elephant comes charging back

Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has revitalised the idea of the Kra land bridge with gusto. Poor economic viability, environmental problems and geopolitical complications account for the project's tepid international reception.

Ian Storey

China's military exercises with Southeast Asian nations likely to rise in frequency and scale

A recent land and maritime exercise among China and five Southeast Asian countries highlights some emerging trends but breaks little new ground.

Ian Storey

Russia's memory diplomacy is paying dividends in Southeast Asia

Russia is employing the selective use of history to further its goals in Southeast Asia. But amid the various reminders of Soviet or Russian involvement in Southeast Asia, there is the constant awareness that history can be written in a certain way by certain parties.

Ian Storey