In moves characterizing the country’s resurgence, Russia continues to regain and assert influence over its neighbors and in America’s backyard.
First in Russia’s “near abroad,” both Central Asia and the Caucasus are considered by Moscow to be within its sphere of influence. Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev decided to close the United States air base in Kyrgyzstan, hampering NATO’s operations in Afghanistan. The pronouncement followed Russia’s offer of $2 billion in economic aid and Alex Rodriguez from the Chicago Tribune writes Central Asian countries can’t afford to say no to Russia.
“Kyrgyzstan and the rest of Central Asia serve as pawns in the revival of the Great Game…
“In recent years…U.S. influence in Central Asia has waned as Putin and his successor, Dmitry Medvedev, have used Russia’s energy clout to reassert their control over ex-Soviet neighbors.”
In the Caucasus, Azerbaijan recently accused Russia of supplying arms to Armenia, reducing the chance of a resolution in the frozen Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Azeri Deputy Foreign Minister Araz Azimov said, “Armenia is being supplied by its military ally, Russia,” but Moscow strongly denied the allegations. Check out a report by the International Crisis Group for background on the disputed area.
On the opposite side of the Atlantic, military bases in Latin America could soon be occasionally used by Russian strategic bombers. Russia resumed long-distance patrols in 2007 after a 15-year hiatus, and on Saturday a top air force official announced Russia was weighing the use of Cuban or Venezuelan bases to support the efforts.
The action is arguably symbolic with few geopolitical ramifications (depending on the type of bombers) and could be a negotiating tactic for upcoming talks on a new strategic arms treaty with the US. Regardless, the military ties further consolidate Russia’s resurgence in the region.
Photo from AFP.