Appeasement 2.0 - Russia’s expansion in the Black Sea region as a prelude to dominance in the Mediterranean and the Levant

Abstract With Russian troops gathering at the Ukrainian border time of writing, Europe and West are facing a real possibility full-scale continental war unprecedented for our generation. The purpose this paper is to bring forth arguments that security in Black Sea area vital importance both present future developments entire continent. Most recent studies on topic focus Russia’s intentions Ukraine weak responses coming from West. Scholars divided when it comes Mr. Putin’s ultimate goals. While some view as bluff, others concerned troop movements might pave way full invasion which will lead domino effect. This qualitative analysis. be analyzed primary sources (such Presidential speeches), while scholarly articles, research papers policy documents used build bridge between history, politics current affairs. establish extent prelude an ‘old’ dream access Mediterranean. A compare contrast approach appeasement order make predictions possible outcomes. Our results show Putin using bargaining chip his confrontation with goal gaining dominance Mediterranean space. contribute literature Eastern European how continues misinterpret dynamics history region.