This study of the Russian army since Russian independence in December 1991 focuses on the interaction between the army and politics. It reveals not only the impact political transformations have had on reforming military structures but also the impact of the military on political decision making. The book starts with an historical overview of Russia's security agenda and examines the Russian/Soviet army's tradition in involvement in politics. It then examines Russia's current security interests and the role of the army in protecting them, links general and geopolitical perspectives to the issues of the "Near Abroad" and to the nuclear dimension of security. It considers the fundamental question of the feasability of political control over the Russian army and takes up the current military role of the army - including conflict management in the Caucasus and the Chechen war. Finally, the place of the army in Russia's peace keeping activities within a broader European context is examined.