Balancing values and interests. NATO’s constrained engagement in the South Caucasus
Considering the current turmoil in transatlantic affairs, NATO’s room for manoeuvre in the South Caucasus is constrained by broader geopolitical rivalries and its limited capacity to prioritize this region as well. Russia maintains a strong military and hybrid influence in the region, while Iran’s ambitions and China’s expanding economic footprint further limit western leverage.
It has been a while since the NATO Secretary General’s Special Representative position for the Caucasus and Central Asia became vacant. Since its establishment in 2004, it has served as the eyes and the ears of the Alliance, facilitating the implementation of NATO’s foreign policy, monitoring internal political developments and reforms, and liaising with local governments.
July 8, 2025 -
Nino Lezhava
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AnalysisIssue 4 2025Magazine
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the start of the 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague. Photo: NATO
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