ABSTRACT
The Islamic factor, both as a geopolitical variable and a domestic factor, has influenced the evolution of post-Soviet Russia’s visions of its interests, the nature of threats to these interests, and the strategies best suited to protect and advance them. It has also influenced the evolution of Russia’s relations with key Muslim countries, the West, and other central players, such as China. Understandably, the strongest impact of this factor has been felt in Russia’s relations with Muslim countries, especially those on Russia’s immediate periphery. However, because of Islam’s rising political profile on the international scene and, in particular, the emergence of militant and extremist strains of Islam determined to challenge both the West and Russia, albeit to different degrees at different times, the Islamic factor has significantly influenced Russian-Western relations. The Islamic variable has also been quite strong in shaping Russia’s approach in the Balkans.
