Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.37458/ssj.3.1.9

HIC SUNT DRACONES! RUSSIA ENTERS THE MEDITERRANEAN

Lasha Tchantouridzé ; Norwich University – the Military College of Vermont, Northfield, VT 05641, U.S.A.

Abstract

The Mediterranean region is developing the most complex international security environment in its modern history. The resurgent and aggressive Russia has established itself as
a new great power in the Mediterranean and intends to dominate it for the coming decades. Through its militarized foreign policy, Moscow seeks to establish its preeminence in Europe
through aggressive moves in eastern Europe, supported by the expansion of its military presence in the wider Mediterranean area. The Mediterranean is attractive to Russia not only because of its geographic proximity but also by the region's well-proven ability to generate and sustain both intrastate and international conflicts, its rich oil and gas deposits, and NATO's weakness highlighted by America's partial retreat from Europe. However, Moscow's newly found confidence in the Mediterranean is not likely to be left without due attention by the United States and its allies; an eventuality that carries a promise of lively a couple of decades for regional states.

Keywords

Russia, Mediterranean, Conflicts, Nuclear Weapons, Oil and Gas

Hrčak ID:

349074

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/349074

Publication date:

26.3.2022.

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