Russia's leadership is facing a growing list of concerns beyond the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the country's struggling economy. A new challenge is emerging from the Kremlin's own backyard, with unrest brewing in the Central Asian nation of Uzbekistan. Long considered a key ally and strategic partner, Uzbekistan's government has been growing increasingly assertive, pushing back against Russian influence in the region. As Moscow struggles to maintain its grip on the former Soviet republics, the prospect of a loss of control in Uzbekistan is raising alarm bells in the Kremlin, adding to the pressure on President Vladimir Putin's administration.
Stalled advance in Ukraine and economic woes are not the only worries for the Kremlin - also a distant ‘near abroad'.
