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The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to the emergence of a unipolar order on the international stage. Although Russia lost its sovereignty over the former Soviet territories, it has developed various strategies to maintain its influence in the region. These strategies include reorganizing political and economic relations, continuing cultural and ideological interactions, maintaining military presence, and strengthening relationships with regional allies. Additionally, Russia has attempted to expand its influence in the region by leveraging historical, demographic, cultural, economic, and ideological ties with the countries of the former Soviet geography. In this context, Russia has shown a tendency to use elements of smart power. Influential diplomacy has been conducted through the provision of economic aid, the organization of cultural activities, and education programs. These activities have influenced the post-independence policies of the former Soviet territories and played a decisive role in regional balance.
Russia’s oppressive and manipulative policies toward the countries of the former Soviet geography led to the crises in Georgia in 2008 and Crimea in 2014. Moscow’s military operations launched in February 2022 in response to the Kiev administration’s request for NATO membership have also impacted the Turkic republics of Central Asia, which are considered as part of Russia’s ‘near abroad.’ Despite supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity, these Turkic States of Central Asia have avoided direct confrontation with Russia. The dismissal of the foreign ministers who supported Ukraine’s territorial integrity in both Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan is an example of this.
This study aims to explain the impact of the Russia – Ukraine crisis on regional stability and security in Central Asia. The regional and global economic impacts of the conflict will be evaluated in terms of energy resources, trade relations, and economic connections.
In the final section, findings will be assessed, and the regional role of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) and its members in the Russia – Ukraine war will be analyzed.
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