ABSTRACT
This chapter traces the evolution of Russia's extra-regional engagement with the Gulf States from a footprint that was barely perceptible in the 1990s to a diplomatic, political, military and economic presence that is unmissable and unavoidable. It argues that far from being a revisionist and pro-active external power, Russia is acting defensively to manage instability. Russia's fear of instability in its neighborhood is a product of historical and contemporary experiences. Instead of seeking to replace the United States of America as a regional hegemon, Russia only desires recognition of its role in a multilateral and multipolar regional order. The bilateral cooperation continued to be insignificant until the 2000s, as a result of the turmoil of the post-communist transition in Russia and the country's Atlanticist orientation which prioritized relations with the West. Economic and commercial interests constitute Russia's interest in relations with the Gulf States. Commercial relations aside, Russia also interacts with the Gulf States in energy markets.
