Abstract

The chapter discusses Russia’s role and policies in the Caucasus. International security environment and domestic factors are discussed as relevant for understanding Russia’s action in the region. Moscow played a key role in mediating conflicts in the region seeking to address its own interests and concerns. The chapter discusses both Northern and South Caucasus dimensions of Russian foreign policy. The author evaluates the effectiveness of such policy in terms of meeting Russia’s objectives and providing stability in the region during the 2000s and following the crisis in Ukraine, and provides an assessment of future challenges. The chapter concludes by reflecting on possible problems in stabilizing the region given the contentious nature of Russia-West relations.