TRANSFORMATION OF THE INTERMARIUM CONCEPT IN THE GEOPOLITICAL STRATEGIES OF THE BALTIC-BLACK SEA REGION (XVI-XXI CENTURIES)

The article is dedicated to analyzing the transformation of the Intermarium concept in the geopolitical strategies of the Baltic-Black Sea region from the 16th to the 21st century. It examines the historical development of this concept, its adaptation to modern geopolitical conditions, and its potential impact on the future of regional cooperation. Given that most Central and Eastern European countries are situated between two powerful blocs— the European Union and NATO on one side and Russia on the other— the necessity of forming independent regional development strategies is explored. The relevance of the study is determined by the growing security challenges and the need to find effective mechanisms for interstate interaction. The Intermarium concept envisions the creation of a geopolitical alliance of countries spanning the Baltic, Black, and Adriatic seas, which would enhance regional security, promote economic growth, and strengthen political stability. Various historical models of the Intermarium, its implementation in different historical periods, and its modern prospects in the context of increasing military threats from Russia are analyzed. The article highlights five key stages in the development of the Intermarium concept: its emergence in the 16th–17th centuries, the interwar period of 1918–1939, the Cold War era (1945–1991), the post-Soviet phase (1991–2004), and the modern period (2004–2021). Particular attention is paid to the contemporary stage of the concept's development, including initiatives related to the Three Seas Initiative, which serves as a tangible mechanism for regional cooperation. As a result of the study, it is concluded that the Intermarium concept is not only a historical phenomenon but also an effective tool for ensuring regional security. It has evolved from a military alliance to economic, political, and cultural cooperation and is once again gaining relevance as a potential defense alliance. Special attention is given to Ukraine’s role in this process and its strategic interests in developing regional cooperation.