This book investigates the complex political and geographical landscape of the post-Soviet republics. Denis J. B. Shaw, an established scholar in the field, draws upon extensive historical data and geopolitical analysis to present a comprehensive overview of the region's formation and its subsequent challenges. The work examines the intricate web of relationships, both internal and external, that have shaped these newly independent nations since the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

This work is recognized as a foundational text for understanding the immediate aftermath of the Soviet Union's collapse. Its detailed historical and political analysis provides a crucial framework for scholars and students engaging with the region's development. The book is noted for its comprehensive scope and its objective presentation of complex geopolitical issues.