Russia’s Near Abroad is in Play – Influence Competition

The Players and Influencers for the Near Abroad. How Does This Impact Russia and The Region?

Dear Subscribers,

“Barbershop Whispers….Russia” begins with “My Takeaways”on the main topic followed by the main topic discussion. The last two sections of “Barbershop Whispers…Russia” will be follow-ups from previous publications and emerging events.

In the previous issue, I discussed Western Companies Exiting the Russian Market…Not so Easy. The terms of exit for companies originating from “friendly” vs “unfriendly” countries, the cost, and the economic impact.

This week’s issue focuses on the competition for influence over the Near Abroad, specifically Central Asia and the Caucasus and particularly the use of government organizations created by Russia and others to project influence in Russia’s “Near Abroad”.