U.S. Policy in Central Asia: Phases of Activity

Abstract

The analysis of US policy in Central Asian countries through the prism of two phases of activity is presented. The fi rst surge of American geopolitical activity in Central Asia began with the US anti-terrorist campaign in Afghanistan that was launched in 2001. During that period the military and political positions of the United States in the region were significantly strengthened and the fi nancing of the political elites of the republics was increased. However, the acceleration of the processes of democratization and liberalization in the countries of the region negatively aff ected the character of relations between the United States and the ruling national elites. Russia’s return to the region as well as China’s growing economic infl uence minimized the degree of US involvement in regional processes. The decision of the American administration to withdraw the main contingent of troops from this country in 2014 undermined the authority of the United States and reduced their presence in the region. The second phase of activity began during the acute crisis of the entire system of international relations and the emerging contours of the new world order. The political and diplomatic activity of the United States in Central Asia noticeably intensifi ed, designed to slow down Russian and Chinese expansion and destroy the monopoly presence of Moscow and Beijing in the economy and military sphere of the countries of the region. It is proved that the United States began to pay more attention to the region with an emphasis on expanding the economic and military component of its foreign policy in Central Asia. Positioning itself as an alternative to cooperation with Russia and China Washington seeks to reduce the dependence of the countries of the region on Moscow and Beijing. It is concluded that the United States will continue to strive to strengthen its strategic positions in Central Asia, increase regional infl uence and displace its geopolitical rivals.