A New CRINK Axis of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea?

Using original data scraping analysis, infographics, and satellite imagery, CSIS Geopolitics and Foreign Policy Department experts assess the degree and substantive nature of changing alignment patterns among China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea (CRINK), and the challenges they pose to global governance.

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China, Iran, and North Korea's Support for Russia in Ukraine

Using original data scraping analysis, infographics, and satellite imagery, Geopolitics and Foreign Policy Department experts assess the degree and substantive nature of changing alignment patterns among China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea (CRINK), and the challenges they pose to global governance.

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CRINK in 10 Charts

China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea (CRINK) are increasingly cooperating to challenge the United States and global governance. These 10 charts showcase how China and Russia anchor CRINK cooperation and how the war in Ukraine has accelerated CRINK alignment. 

Commentary by Brian Hart, Bonny Lin, Maria Snegovaya, and Mona Yacoubian — November 24, 2025

Unpacking the CRINK Axis

Join the CSIS Korea Chair for a discussion unpacking the growing ties among China, Russia, Iran and North Korea, which some have called a CRINK axis or an "Axis of Upheaval." 

Event — October 28, 2025

Unpacking the CRINK Axis

The CSIS Geopolitics and Foreign Policy Department and the Korea Chair held a discussion unpacking the growing ties among China, Russia, Iran and North Korea, which some have called a CRINK axis or an “Axis of Upheaval.”

Transcript — October 28, 2025

Renewed China-DPRK Diplomacy: Symbolism or Substance?

CSIS experts address critical questions regarding Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s recent visit to North Korea and its significance for bilateral ties.

Critical Questions by Victor Cha, Bonny Lin, Andy Lim, and Truly Tinsley — October 14, 2025

CRINK Security Ties: Growing Cooperation, Anchored by China and Russia

This brief utilizes data to explore the strengths and limits of security cooperation among China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea (CRINK), with a focus on lessons learned from Russia’s war in Ukraine and Iran’s conflicts in the Middle East.

Brief by CSIS Scholars — September 30, 2025