"A timely narrative of Moscow's noisy, though deftly executed and clearly efficient, re-insertion in the Middle East. Trenin is deeply familiar with the Kremlin's decision-making though cognizant of Russia's limited resources. Heavily informed by geopolitics, Trenin convincingly demonstrates the large impact of regional politics on the shifting equations among global powers.„
Ghassan Salamé, Professor of International Relations Emeritus, Sciences Po, Paris
“Trenin offers an indispensable and authoritative account of Moscow's motivation in the Middle East. Rooted in history and lucidly told, he paints a compelling portrait of Russia as a power „with no permanent friends and no eternal enemies“, ready to kick over regional tables on its global comeback to geopolitical top table.„
David Gardner, International Affairs Editor, Financial Times
“Dmitri Trenin offers a balanced and thoughtful analysis of the ambitions, anxieties, and interests that have shaped Russian policy toward the West since the end of the Cold War. It is a welcome antidote to the one-dimensional views of Russia and President Putin that prevail in western commentary.„
Henry Kissinger
“Dmitri Trenin makes a clear and compelling case that Russia's Realpolitik may become more realistic, and argues that the West should fear Russia's weakness more than its strength. Trenin's voice of reason makes an important and hopeful contribution to the current policy debate."
Joseph S. Nye, Jr., Harvard University, and author of Is the American Century Over?