ABSTRACT
This chapter examines Russian policy towards the region as Moscow has sought to counterbalance growing American, European and Turkish involvement within what it perceives to be its traditional sphere of influence. It analyses the drivers of Russian policy and assesses the implications of Russia's consolidation of its dominance for regional co-operation efforts. The Soviet legacies of central control and migration continue to influence Russian policy towards the three states in the region, whilst enduring Russian hegemony impedes the development of effective regional co-operation. Russian policies vis-a-vis the South Caucasus in the contemporary era are focused on maintaining influence and protecting its political and economic interests in the region. The Soviet policy of 'divide-and-rule' enhanced tensions between the manifold peoples of the region, as artificial borders divided natural alliances and strengthened individual ethnic identities, contributing to hostilities and conflicting dynamics that endure in the contemporary era.
