Ukrainian and Belorussian dimensions of Turkmenistan foreign policy: small states in a multipolar world

Abstract

As the USA continues to decline both in relative and absolute terms, the global order emerges where no center of power exists. This creates a complicated and instable geopolitical situation where small states could act behind the back of the great powers. The relationship between Turkmenistan and Ukraine is the example of this sort of relationship. Whereas Ukraine wants to get cheap gas, Turkmenistan wants to find the way to sell its gas to the West. It looks as though both countries pay little attention to Russian objection and act without direct help from either the USA or other great powers.