Gorbachev's New International Outlook and the Eastern Mediterranean
Abstract
Gorbachev's new outlook has highlighted new means to spread the sphere of influence of the Soviet Union specifically. His new means, especially his emphasis on diplomacy, can be compared to those of Metternich and Bismark in the 19th century; moreover, his approach has induced Western statesmen to alter frozen ways of thinking and attitudes; he uses global Real-Politik. The Middle East, a region of vast importance, has reacted favorably to the new Soviet policy. This work investigates Soviet relations with Egypt, Israel, Syria and Jordan during the pre-Gorbachev era and after his inauguration. The new trends in the region have enabled Gorbachev to: (1) Recover from the setback with Egypt; (2) Create open bilateral relations with the state of Israel; and (3) Bring radical, isolated Syria to the notion of a possible peaceful settlement with Israel. The global strategic advantages that Gorbachev has gained with respect to the United States have included: (1) Improving bilateral relations, which is beneficial to the USSR in the diplomatic sphere; and (2) U.S. consent to Soviet participation in an international conference in the Middle East which in global terms legitimizes Soviet stances worldwide in various contingencies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA241198
Entities
People
- Shlomo N. Sas
Organizations
- Air War College