The unexpected dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 shook the geopolitical environment of Turkey, as for the first time in three centuries, the country no longer shares borders with Russia. In between them lies the Caucasus, consisting of three small and unstable states (Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan) and the North Caucasus, which is under Russian sovereignty. Turkey has already successfully intervened in shaping regional balances and systematically seeks to establish alliances that will elevate it to a regional power with increased influence in the Caucasus.

This edition aims primarily to fill the gap in Greek literature regarding the history of the Caucasus, its peoples, and the problems of the region. However, its main purpose is to contribute to the understanding of Turkish foreign policy towards the Caucasus. The analysis of Turkish regional policy can provide useful insights into the long-term goals of the Turkish military bureaucracy towards neighboring countries and the ideological principles guiding Turkish diplomacy.

Additionally, the book thoroughly examines the interstate competition that has erupted since the early 1990s for control over the oil of the Caspian Sea. It refers to the issue of oil pipelines, the legal status of the Caspian Sea, the environmental problems of the Bosphorus, the stance of Iran, the regional policies of the United States, Russia, European states, and Israel. Furthermore, the book examines Greek foreign policy towards the countries of the Caucasus and presents specific proposals for an effective Greek policy in the region that will strengthen ties with the peoples of the Caucasus and contribute to regional stability. The book is addressed to academics, students, diplomats, journalists, military personnel, and readers interested in the Caucasus region, Turkish foreign policy, the geopolitics of oil, and the competition among major powers in the Caspian Sea.