Publication

This paper examines the distinctive features of Russian foreign policy toward the Caucasus and Central Asia. This policy, the author argues, is characterized by a post-imperial and post-colonial perception of both regions in the eyes of the Russian power elite. In addition, Russia has no positive development model to offer to the states and societies in Central Asia that would buttress economic reforms or encompass projects to solve the mounting internal problems or frozen ethnic conflicts. Finally, the paper looks at Russia's strategic failures and successes in the two regions.