| Synopsis: |
The two Yemens--the Yemen Arab Republic (YAR) and the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen (PDRY)--both occupy strategic positions on the oil-rich Arabian Peninsula. As an essential component of Saudi Arabia's work force, the Yemenis' emerging nationalism and political restlessness are crucial to the future stability of the region--a fact long-recognized by the Soviet Union. Rich in information and insight, The Soviet Union and the Yemens is the first book in the English language to chart Soviet-YAR and Soviet-PDRY influence relationships. The author takes a clear, chronological approach to the subject: he traces the evolution of Soviet policy in the region, and considers the ways in which domestic developments have helped shape Soviet moves and were in turn affected by them. Stephen Page describes the various techniques and the Soviets have used to court the two Yemens since the mid-1950s, and explains how these have influenced the relations between countries in the Arab world, especially Saudi-Yemeni relations, as well as relations between the Soviet Union and the United States. The author provides a clear appraisal of the subtle nature, and limits, of Soviet influence. |