Transnational Threats Project

The Transnational Threats (TNT) Project focuses on the threat and evolution of terrorist networks and the irregular activities of countries like Russia, Iran, and China

Led by Dr. Seth G. Jones, director and Harold Brown Chair, TNT examines the activities of organizations like the Islamic State, al Qaeda, Lebanese Hezbollah, Shia militias, and far-right and far-left extremist networks—including counterterrorism efforts. TNT also analyzes Russian, Iranian, and Chinese irregular warfare activities, such as covert action, economic warfare, support to non-state partners, cyber operations, disinformation, political warfare, and espionage.

TNT conducts extensive fieldwork overseas, compiles and analyzes data sets, and utilizes satellite imagery and other types of qualitative and quantitative analysis. TNT also draws from an extensive network of policy experts from the U.S. and partner governments, Congress, academia, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector. In partnership with CSIS’s Andreas C. Dracopoulos iDeas Lab, TNT translates its research into high-quality videos, podcasts, reports, visualizations, and other products designed to engage audiences and inform policy discussions through objective analysis. TNT’s work is highly valued by government officials, corporate executives, and other influential leaders seeking to understand, prevent, and counter transnational threats.

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Photo: Paula Bronstein /Getty Images

Photo: Paula Bronstein /Getty Images

The End of the Beginning in Ukraine

Despite Ukraine’s retaking of Kherson, there are growing calls for Ukraine to end the war through peace talks with Russia. But the conditions are not yet ripe for peace. The United States should continue to aid Ukraine by providing more arms and economic support.

Commentary by Seth G. Jones and Philip G. Wasielewski — November 17, 2022

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The Truth of the Matter

Terrorism in the U.S.

In this episode, Andrew invites Seth Jones to discuss what CSIS data reveals on the increasing terrorism problem in the U.S.

Podcast Episode by H. Andrew Schwartz and Seth G. Jones — August 24, 2020

CSIS the truth of the matter

The Tactics and Targets of Domestic Terrorists

With rising concerns about domestic terrorism, this analysis examines trends in terrorist tactics and targets in the United States. It compiles and analyzes an original CSIS data set of terrorist attacks in the United States between January 1, 1994, and May 8, 2020.

Brief by Seth G. Jones , Catrina Doxsee , and Nicholas Harrington — July 30, 2020

Photo: LOGAN CYRUS/AFP/Getty Images

Moscow’s Next Front: Russia’s Expanding Military Footprint in Libya

Libya has emerged as Russia’s latest expeditionary front and deployment area for private military companies, including Wagner Group. Recent battlefield operations are revealing the strengths and weaknesses of Moscow’s evolving proxy warfare strategy.

Commentary by Joseph S. Bermudez Jr. and Brian Katz — June 17, 2020

Photo: CSIS/Transnational Threats Project/Maxar 2020

The Escalating Terrorism Problem in the United States

The United States faces a growing terrorism problem that will likely worsen in the next year, particularly around the 2020 presidential election. The most significant threat likely comes from white supremacists, though anarchists and religious extremists could also pose a threat.

Brief by Seth G. Jones , Catrina Doxsee , and Nicholas Harrington — June 17, 2020

Photo: MARK RALSTON/AFP via Getty Images

Who Are Antifa, and Are They a Threat?

On May 31, President Trump announced he would designate Antifa as a terrorist organization. Antifa refers to a decentralized network of far-left militants that oppose fascists and racists, and CSIS data shows Antifa pose a relatively small threat in the United States.

Critical Questions by Seth G. Jones — June 4, 2020

Photo: AMY OSBORNE/AFP via Getty Images

Moscow’s War in Syria

The Transnational Threats Project assesses Russia's military and diplomatic campaign in Syria, the largest and most significant Russian out-of-area operation since the end of the Cold War.

Report by Seth G. Jones , Danika Newlee , Edmund Xavier Loughran , Jason Gresh , Brian Katz , and Nicholas Harrington — May 12, 2020

The Right-wing Terrorism Threat in Europe

There has been growing alarm in Europe about a rise in right-wing terrorism, highlighted by recent attacks in Germany. CSIS's Transnational Threats Project assesses the threat that right-wing terrorists pose to Europe, in comparison to other types of terrorism.

Report by Seth G. Jones , Catrina Doxsee , and Nicholas Harrington — March 24, 2020

Photo Credit: BALINT PORNECZI/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES

Signposts of Struggle: Iran’s Enduring Protest Movement

Though the death of Qasem Soleimani inspired Iranian nationalism in the short term, protests against the regime continue and will likely pose a long-term challenge to Iran’s domestic stability—especially if they become more centralized or inspire security force defections.

Brief by Seth G. Jones , Joseph S. Bermudez Jr. , and Danika Newlee — January 24, 2020

Photo: ATTA KENARE/AFP via Getty Images