Introduction
Vladimir Putin’s “turn to the East” (povorot na Vostok) greatly intensified in 2014. Of the various pivots to Asia it is one of the most controversial, but, at various times, was encouraged by all countries active in the region. Compared to the others, it has the most diversified objectives, but also the greatest contradictions among them. In the context of multiple pivots, this one has the greatest urgency and, perhaps, the most immediate ramifications. To appreciate its significance, we need to grasp not only its stated objectives, but also the intended impact on bilateral relations with the other states in Northeast Asia and likely fallout from clashes with other pivots.
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