This book examines the geopolitical crises that have become one of the main variables of international politics in recent years through the lens of the Black Sea. In the 20th century, geopolitics—the password to world domination—triggered two great world wars, and in the 21st century, it has reinforced its relevance through various regional conflicts. In fact, today’s conflict dynamics represent not merely competition among regional powers but also a broader struggle between global and regional actors.
Developed from Ebru Kain’s master’s thesis, this work analyzes the geopolitical power transitions of the 21st century through the unique geographical and political significance of the Black Sea. In her analysis, Kain examines the long-standing balance-of-power rivalry between the United States, NATO, and the Russian Federation, focusing on the Black Sea policies of the United States and Russia. Undoubtedly, the most significant event that has brought this power rivalry to its peak is the Russia–Ukraine war, which began in 2022 and continues at the time of this book’s publication.
The Russia–Ukraine war has not only turned the Black Sea into a center of geopolitical confrontation but has also structurally reshaped Euro-Atlantic security relations. As the search for a new equilibrium continues, the global balance of power will persist in testing itself through Black Sea–centered challenges. I believe that Kain’s study will serve as a key reference for research focused on the Black Sea at a time when the global balance of power and international rivalry have reached their zenith. I hope that scholarly efforts in this field will continue to grow and multiply.
