Russian Foreign Policy Towards the Middle East e-bog

This book sheds light on Russias motives in the Middle East, examining its growing role in the region and its efforts to defend its national interests. As one of the first volumes to address both domestic and external drivers, it provides a valuable multi-dimensional account of Moscows foreign policy.Russian Foreign Policy Towards the Middle Eastalso traces the historical evolution of Russias presence in the region, comparing Moscows current vision of its diplomatic priorities with the strategic goals of the Soviet Union.Diverse case studies reveal areas of both divergence and convergence between Russia and various Middle Eastern players on a range of issues, including the Syrian Civil War, Irans regional activities and the Yemeni conflict. In an era of renewed global tensions, this volume provides an important corrective to the notion that Russias Cold War-era confrontation with the West determines its contemporary approach to the Middle East. No less important are economic interests and domestic security considerations, which push Moscow towards greater interaction with the region. Only by examining both new trends and old traditions can we understand Russias significance as a global player today.