Supposed changes in the balance forces in the region and optimistic statements on the possible settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh problem by the end of 2006 have revealed new directions and distribution of the power vector. External factors and first of all strengthening of the U.S. and European structures in the region and Russia's retreat from the dominant positions is being observed in the region. Analyst of Kavkaz center Manvel Sargsyan comments on the situation to PanARMENIAN.Net.

Russia is still one of key players in the South Caucasus and, naturally, it is not going to withdraw. Indeed, by means of Georgia the country is being pushed out of the Caucasian mountain range. Turkey and the EU are going to enter the arena, to say nothing of the increased influence of the US. Chief of the Department of CIS Countries of the Russian Institute of Strategic Research, Candidate of Historical Sciences Alexander Skakov told PanARMENIAN.Net about regional issues.