ABSTRACT
This chapter explores Russia’s relations with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey – countries chosen for two reasons: First, they represent critical players in today’s Middle East, indeed playing on opposite sides of the great game for regional influence. What all of them have in common is an increasing pattern of collaboration with Russia, each able to talk and engage with it. Second, they share a past of difficult or even troubled relations with Moscow. For each one of these countries, this chapter explores the pattern of past relations with Russia, the main drivers for rapprochement, and the principal areas for cooperation, as well as divergence. The objective is to assess the actual depth of these relations: are they mere relationships of convenience based on tactical, short-term interests? Or are they more structured partnerships, set to last over the long term and even to give way to broader geopolitical shifts in the regional balance of power?
