Uzbekistan Is Turning Away From The Kremlin

• 2.09.2026, 16:19

Tashkent is seeking closer ties with the United States.

Uzbekistan aims to become one of Central Asia’s key economic and technological hubs, while simultaneously strengthening its cooperation with the United States. The country’s ambassador to Washington, Furkat Sidikov, confirms this course, according to The National Interest.

According to the diplomat, the country has undergone a profound transformation over its 35 years of independence. “Today we speak of the ‘New Uzbekistan’ because our country is undergoing large-scale transformations,” Sidikov stated.

Washington occupies a special place in the new strategy. Tashkent is counting on expanded cooperation in energy, technology, infrastructure, and the extraction of critical minerals. The parties are discussing a $105 billion commercial package over ten years, of which about $35 billion is allocated to immediate investment and procurement commitments.

Uzbekistan also expects to complete its accession to the World Trade Organization as early as this year and is actively courting American companies. The national program on critical minerals includes 76 projects with planned investments totaling $2.6 billion.

At the same time, Tashkent continues to maintain close ties with Moscow: Russia and Uzbekistan describe their relationship as a “comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance,” and bilateral trade continues to grow in 2026.

However, the country’s foreign policy balance is gradually shifting. Uzbekistan is increasingly seeking alternative markets, investments, and transport routes, which allows it to reduce its dependence on Russia’s traditional sphere of influence. At the same time, Tashkent is strengthening its relations with China and is looking forward to a historic visit by the U.S. president in 2027.

“We want our partnership with the U.S. to develop on its own solid foundation of trust and mutual benefit,” Sidikov emphasized.