The term "CIS Countries" refers to the member states of the Commonwealth of Independent States, a regional organization formed after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. The CIS aims to promote cooperation in various areas, including economic, political, and military matters. The founding members include Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and several other former Soviet republics. As of now, the CIS consists of nine member countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. While the organization facilitates collaboration, the level of participation and commitment varies among its members, with some countries pursuing closer ties with Western nations.