This clear and comprehensive text explores the past quarter-century of Soviet/Russian international relations, comparing foreign policy formation under Gorbachev, Yeltsin, and Putin. Drawing on an impressive mastery of both Russian and Western sources, Andrei Tsygankov shows how Moscows policies have shifted with each leaders vision of Russias national interests. He evaluates the successes and failures of Russias foreign policies, explaining its many turns as Russias identity and interaction with the West have evolved. The author concludes with nuanced insights into Putins distinctive course, which balances an enduring quest for great power status with the desire for a special relationship with Western nations.