Russia moves to regain lost territory and influence

Back-channel news suggests that the present political upheaval (revolution) in Kyrgyzstan has been 'sponsored' and supported by Russia.
Although a long way from existing Russian borders the country is in a key position regarding influence and prescence in the region.
There are a few reasons why Russia would want to re-install its prescence in Kyrgyzstan -
1. To regain some of what was lost when the USSR collapsed
2. To 'seize the moment' when the US is still embroiled in Afghanistan
3. To undermine the US prescence (read 'strategic and vital air-base') in the country

A BBC report says:
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Kyrgyzstan's location means it is firmly entrenched in the new "great game" tussle between the US, Russia and China for power, influence and access to resources in the region.
US Manas airbase, Kyrgyzstan
The Manas base is critical to US action in Afghanistan

It hosts airbases for both Russia and the US, both of whom were quick to urge restraint.

The US base at Manas is vital as a staging post for its operations in Afghanistan. When Mr Bakiyev announced he was closing the base in early 2009 - following a significant aid pledge from Moscow - President Barack Obama agreed to a massive increase in rent payments.

The US lease on the base is due to expire in July 2010.

The interim minister for constitutional affairs has suggested its days could be numbered but Ms Otunbayeva has said she will honour the current agreement.

Washington has responded cautiously, saying it has an "existing agreement" with Bishkek and that it does not believe the uprising was "anti-American" or Russian-sponsored. It is sending a delegate to meet the new administration.

See - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/8608870.stm
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Couple this with very similar moves (create unrest to destabilise and then seize control) over the past couple of years to regain control in the Caucusus (e.g. note on Georgia above) and the Ukraine what we are seeing is a re-emergence of the Russian bear from a period of 'wound-licking', humiliation and vulnerability.