The return of Russia Putin to the Eastern Mediterranean: opportunities and challenges

Abstract

      The eastern Mediterranean has an important position in Russian geopolitical calculations, from the rule of Tsarist Russia to Putin's Russia. After the end of the Cold War and the disintegration of the Soviet Union, the priorities and tools of Putin's Russia's foreign policy toward the region changed in terms of restoring its role and influence on the world stage, and protecting its southern borders.

     The geopolitical factor is the main motive for Russia’s return to the eastern Mediterranean and the expansion of its influence in the Middle East. The Russian intervention in Syria marked a turning point in Russia’s foreign policy, strengthening its military and diplomatic presence in the region, in parallel with participating in energy markets and establishing economic partnerships and constructive relations with Opposing actors in regional conflicts in the Middle East, which is an advantage for the Russians. This strategy has made Russia a rising power with an influence on the international scene, capable of changing the balance of power and challenging Western hegemony.