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1991-2005 – transitional period from empire to new nation states |
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Russia used “imperial” approach: economic
support of the “colonies” in return for political loyalty and hopes
of reintegration |
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Putin’s generation of Russian politicians is less sentimental about
Soviet “shared legacy”
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Since 2005 the
emphasis has shifted to promoting Russia’s
economic interests: subsidies and barter in relations with the
former republics are replaced by market relations |
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Under Putin the relations between Russia and its former sister
republics are being transformed into
normal relations between nation states |
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"Near abroad" is no longer Russia's exclusive
backyard.
Russia is one of the global players
here |
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Economic influence based on market relations instead of simulating
integration by subsidies and barter
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Russia is prepared to cooperate with young democracies if they
respect its interests |
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As a
“great energy
power”, Russia
has enough resources to compete with the U.S., E.U.
and China for influence in the "near
abroad"
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Russia’s successful modernisation will be the most reliable basis
for its continued economic and cultural influence in the region
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