Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) at 25: Present and Prospects

This article examines the phenomenon of so-called "one-year seeds" — seeds that produce a crop only in the first generation and cannot be used for subsequent sowing. Based on an analysis of the history of Genetic Use Restriction Technology (GURT), known as "Terminator Technology," as well as F1 hybrid seeds currently available on the market, the article reconstructs the actual picture of which seeds truly require annual purchase and why. Particular attention is devoted to distinguishing myths from facts: no agricultural corporation in the world has commercialized genetically modified sterile seeds, yet F1 hybrid seeds, widely available on the market, are biologically unsuitable for seed saving. For Ukraine's agricultural sector, where farmers annually face a choice between the productivity of hybrids and the cost savings of traditional varieties, understanding these mechanisms holds special practical significance.

This article examines the hypothetical scenario of a full-scale nuclear war and assesses the potential of various countries to survive under conditions of global catastrophe. Based on analysis of scientific research and expert assessments, the key factors determining a nation's and its population's ability to endure a nuclear conflict and subsequent nuclear winter are reconstructed. Particular attention is devoted to researchers' conclusions that only a limited number of countries, primarily located in the Southern Hemisphere, possess the necessary conditions for maintaining agricultural production and social stability in the post-apocalyptic period.

In this article, a hypothetical scenario of a full-scale nuclear war is examined, and the potential of various countries to survive amid a global catastrophe is assessed. Based on analyses of scientific research and expert assessments, the key factors determining the ability of a state and its population to endure a nuclear conflict and the ensuing nuclear winter are reconstructed. Special attention is given to researchers' conclusions that only a limited number of countries, primarily located in the Southern Hemisphere, possess the necessary conditions for maintaining agricultural production and social stability in the post-apocalyptic period.

This article examines the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime artery connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, which holds critical importance for global energy supplies. Based on analysis of geographical characteristics, economic statistics, and current events from February-March 2026, the article reconstructs the comprehensive significance of the strait and the consequences of its blockade. Particular attention is devoted to the geopolitical context of the ongoing conflict between Iran and the coalition led by the United States and Israel, as well as the potential impact on global oil, gas, and related product markets.

This article examines the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime artery connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, which holds critical importance for global energy supplies. Based on analysis of geographical characteristics, economic statistics, and current events from February-March 2026, the article reconstructs the comprehensive significance of the strait and the consequences of its blockade. Particular attention is devoted to the geopolitical context of the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US-Israel led coalition, as well as the potential impact on global oil, gas, and related product markets.

This article examines the complex and enduring nature of Israel's conflicts with its neighboring states and actors. Based on an analysis of historical events, political declarations, international agreements, and contemporary geopolitical analyses, the article reconstructs the multifaceted reasons behind the persistent state of war and tension. Particular attention is devoted to the foundational ideological and territorial disputes, the impact of the 1967 War, the role of the Palestinian issue, the rise of non-state actors, and the recent resurgence of the "Greater Israel" discourse. The analysis also covers the strained relations with traditional peace partners Egypt and Jordan, as well as the challenges to the Abraham Accords framework in the context of the 2023–2026 war.

This article examines the complex question of whether Russia could successfully capture Latvia, a NATO member state since 2004. Based on analysis of current intelligence assessments, military simulations, and geopolitical dynamics as of February 2026, the article reconstructs the multifaceted nature of the threat, ranging from hybrid warfare to conventional invasion scenarios. Particular attention is devoted to the balance between Russian capabilities, NATO's defensive commitments, and the specific vulnerabilities of the Baltic region. The consensus among Western intelligence agencies indicates that while Russia poses significant hybrid and cyber threats, a conventional military invasion capable of capturing Latvia faces formidable obstacles, primarily Latvia's NATO membership and the alliance's collective defense guarantee under Article 5.