<P>This book examines the nature of Russia's relations with the former Soviet states (FSS), in particular with countries which formed the Commonwealth of Independent States,&nbsp;in order&nbsp;to assess whether there has been a resurgence of Russian imperialism since the collapse of the USSR.</P><br/><br/><P>The book sets out to determine whether Russian leaders have attempted to restore a sphere of influence over the former Soviet republics or whether Russia's policies reflect a genuine desire to establish normal state-to-state relations with the new states. It adopts a comprehensive approach, analysing Russia's policies towards the FSS across a broad range of areas: energy, trade and investment; military assistance, security provision and peacekeeping; conflict management, political support, and alliance formation. While not denying the Kremlin's assertive role in the FSS, this book challenges the assumption that Russia has always intended to restore a sphere of influence over its 'Near Abroad'. Rather, it argues that Russia's policies are much more complex, multi-faceted, and often more&nbsp;incoherent than is often assumed. In essence, Russia's actions generally reflect a combination of legitimate state interests, enduring Soviet legacies, and genuine concerns over events unfolding along Russia's borders. This book also shows that, at times, Great-Power nostalgia and a real difficulty with discarding Russia's imperial legacy shapes Russia's behaviour towards the FSS.</P><br/><br/><P>This book will be of great interest to students of Russian politics and foreign policy, east European politics, and International Relations in general.</P>