My name is Nathaniel Ellis and I am a Political Risk Analyst here at the Atlas Institute for International Affairs, having joined the organisation in January 2025. I hold an MA in Politics and International Relations from Keele University, where I explored a broad spectrum of topics including European politics, maritime security, and post-conflict development.
My research interests are centered on the intersection of emerging technologies and global security, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence, space, and satellite capabilities. Through my work, I aim to contribute to the organisation in a positive way, and analyse key issues at the forefront of the international agenda.
Russia–Azerbaijan Tensions: How the Caucasus Power Balance is Changing
Russia and Azerbaijan's relationship has long been a cautious balancing act that has been rooted in shared imperial legacies as well as Soviet legacy, but increasingly defined by competing interests.…
The Recent Escalation in Middle Eastern Tensions and its Impacts
Escalation of Hostilities Between Iran and Israel In mid-June 2025, hostilities between Iran and Israel escalated markedly. On 13th June, Israel initiated Operation Rising Lion, a comprehensive aerial and drone…
Escalation of India-Pakistan Tensions Over Kashmir
In April 2025, longstanding geopolitical frictions between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir region intensified significantly following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir (The Times of India,…
Russia’s War Economy: a Growing Global Political Risk
Russia’s transition to a full-scale war economy is reshaping the global political and economic landscape. Since its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has undergone a profound economic transformation. Moscow…
Political Instability in Turkey
The Arrest of Istanbul’s Mayor and Its Implications Turkey is currently experiencing significant political upheaval following the arrest of Istanbul's Mayor, Ekrem İmamoğlu, a prominent opposition leader and potential contender…
China’s Economic Slowdown and Geopolitical Risks: Implications for Foreign Investors
China’s economy, once a global growth engine, has faced significant headwinds in recent years. While China are still the top global manufacturer, leading exports of many goods, investing heavily in high-tech sectors,…
How Resource Nationalism Affects Investment in Venezuela
Resource Nationalism Although Venezuela has experienced a modest economic recovery in recent years, its productive structure remains critically impaired, with poverty rates approaching three times the regional average and stark…
Political Instability in the Global South: The Rise of Military Coups in Africa and Their Economic Implications
In recent years, political instability in the Global South, particularly in Africa, has intensified, marked by a notable surge in military coups. Between 2020 and 2022, the continent experienced six…
Authoritarian Alliances: Analysing the Trump Administration’s Recent Far-Right Controversies
The Trump Administration’s Engagement with the AfD At the start of President Trump's second term, a distinct shift in international relations is becoming evident. The new administration appears resolute in…