This book examines the origins and execution of Russian military and political activities in Moldova, Georgia, Ukraine, and Azerbaijan. Using a realist perspective, the author concludes that there are substantial similarities in the four case studies: Russian support for minority separatist movements, conflict, Russian intervention as peacekeepers, Russian control over the diplomatic process to prevent resolution of the conflict, and a perpetuation of Russian presence in the area. The author places the conflicts in the context of international law and nationalism theory.

James J. Coyle is Director of Global Education, Chapman University, USA and a Non-Resident Senior Research Fellow at the Atlantic Council. Dr. Coyle previously held a variety of positions in the US government, including Director of Middle East Studies, US Army War College.