Since the fall of the Soviet Union, Russia has endeavored to maintain influence over its borderlands . Central Asia is an essential portion of this periphery. From Feb. 27 to Feb. 28, Russian President Vladimir Putin toured the Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. All are members of the Russia-backed Collective Security Treaty Organization . Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are also part of the Eurasian Economic Union and Tajikistan is considering joining as well. Russia also maintains a substantial military presence in these countries — most notably at the Kant air base in Kyrgyzstan and the 201st military base in Tajikistan — and cooperates with local militaries in frequent exercises. But these three countries are also in a precarious position: They are in dire economic straits because of low oil prices and exposure to a Russian economy weakened by sanctions . These pressures could inflame militant and protest movements.