Few regional areas have stimulated as much interest and speculations as Russia and the New Independent States.Emerging from the transition years through different ways, these countries are facing individual as well as joint challenges. In this original book, eleven key experts explore the recent shifts in foreign policies, as well as the domestic evolutions of these countries. Added to this, many of them deliver concrete political recommendations. This is a book designed to enhance knowledge for action.

"Some Western observers see Russia and the West heading toward a new conflict. Others argue in favor of a partnership of patience. This book offers a detailed, clear and sometimes spectacular insight into this complicated geopolitical subject."

Alexandre Rahr, Program Director Körber-Centre Russia/CIS, German Council on Foreign Relations(DGAP), Berlin

"This book manages to illuminate the complexity of current Russian developments. It provides invaluable analysis of the tensions and dilemmas in Putin's Russia. The authors are terrific at analyzing and explaining Russian reality and Russian puzzles."

Lilia Shevtsova, Senior Associate, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Moscow.