On the role of Russia in the settlement of conflicts and crises in the countries of Central Asia in the post-Soviet period

The article reviews Russian Federation's participation in the settlement of conflicts and crisis situations in Central Asia. Particular attention is paid to its position during the civil war in Tajikistan (1992-1997), two incursions of bandit formations into Kyrgyzstan (1999-2000), Andijan events (2005), and ethnic clashes in Kyrgyzstan (2010). The relevance of the stated topic is conditioned by the positive experience gained by the Russian side in resolving various conflicts and crises in this problem region that can be extrapolated successfully to other conflict areas of the world that are in the focus of Russian foreign policy attention in order to ensure the peaceful development of states facing similar threats of stability. Particularly important in this regard is the unique experience gained in the course of the inter-Tajik settlement in building a dialogue with the radical forces, as well as involving the opposition, primarily its Islamic component, in the political process. In conclusion, the author states that Russia's participation in the settlement of conflicts and crises in this sub-region of the post-Soviet space has become an important factor in maintaining a stable situation in the region and in the territorial integrity of its countries, strengthening their sovereignty, peacefully resolving frequent border incidents, and preventing the escalation of inter-clan and interethnic confrontation inside republics. At the same time, Moscow's foreign policy actions, avoiding interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states, were characterized by due diligence and a balanced approach. At the same time, its course is being tracked towards stabilizing adjacent zones of tension.