Although the concept of “naval diplomacy” dates only to the 1970s, it describes a very old phenomenon present throughout the history of the  Mediterranean; since Classical times, naval forces have been used for political ends. Today, power relations are beginning to change in the  Mediterranean. The United States is steadily withdrawing, leaving room for other players, Russia in particular. Europe, undermined by internal divisions and the economic crisis, is not in a position to impose itself.