Russian Foreign Policy

A comprehensive re-evaluation of Russian foreign policy in the 21st century is provided in this cutting-edge textbook, covering its historical development, key institutions and actors, processes, principles, and strategies. It integrates domestic and global perspectives to offer a more rounded and balanced assessment of Russia's place in the world. It is essential reading for Russian foreign policy modules and broader courses on Russian government and politics, and can also be used as supplementary reading on comparative politics and foreign policy modules that use Russia as a key case study.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 297 pages
Publication date: 27 December 2018
Publisher: Macmillan Education UK

This groundbreaking textbook, penned by two esteemed scholars, offers a comprehensive reassessment of Russian foreign policy in the twenty-first century. Spanning its historical evolution, key institutions and actors, processes, principles, and strategies, it seamlessly integrates domestic and global perspectives to provide a holistic and balanced evaluation of Russia's position in the world. This text will serve as an indispensable resource for students enrolled in Russian foreign policy modules, as well as for broader courses on Russian government and politics. Additionally, it can be utilized as supplementary reading for more general comparative politics and foreign policy modules that utilize Russia as a central case study.

The historical development of Russian foreign policy is intricately intertwined with the country's complex political, economic, and social landscape. From the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 to the present day, Russia has navigated a series of challenges and opportunities that have shaped its foreign policy outlook. One of the key factors that have influenced Russian foreign policy is the country's territorial expansionism. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia sought to reclaim its former territories and expand its influence in the region. This led to a series of conflicts, including the Russo-Georgian War in 2008 and the annexation of Crimea in 2014, which have strained Russia's relations with its neighbors and the international community.

Another important factor that has shaped Russian foreign policy is the country's energy resources. Russia is one of the world's largest producers of oil and gas, and its control over these resources has played a significant role in its foreign policy decisions. This has led to Russia's involvement in conflicts in the Middle East, particularly in Syria, where it has supported the government of Bashar al-Assad against opposition groups.

In addition to its territorial expansionism and energy resources, Russia has also been influenced by its historical and cultural ties with other countries. For example, Russia has close relations with China, which has been a key partner in trade and investment. This has led to Russia's support for China's territorial claims in the South China Sea and its opposition to Western sanctions against China.

Another important aspect of Russian foreign policy is the country's role in international organizations. Russia has been a member of the United Nations, the G7, and the G20, and has played a significant role in shaping the policies of these organizations. However, Russia has also been criticized for its authoritarianism and its opposition to Western values and norms.

In recent years, Russian foreign policy has been increasingly focused on countering Western influence and promoting its own interests. This has led to a series of conflicts, including the annexation of Crimea, the conflict in Syria, and the ongoing tensions with the United States and Europe.

One of the key challenges facing Russian foreign policy in the twenty-first century is the country's economic development. Russia's economy has been struggling in recent years, with low oil prices and international sanctions contributing to a decline in GDP and a rise in unemployment. This has led to social unrest and political instability, which could further complicate Russia's foreign policy decisions.

Another challenge facing Russian foreign policy is the country's relations with its neighbors. Russia's territorial expansionism and its involvement in conflicts in the Middle East have strained its relations with many of its neighbors, including Ukraine, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. This has led to a series of diplomatic tensions and military interventions, which have further complicated Russia's position in the region.

In conclusion, Russian foreign policy in the twenty-first century has been shaped by a complex set of factors, including territorial expansionism, energy resources, historical and cultural ties, and international organizations. While Russia has played a significant role in shaping global politics, it has also faced a series of challenges and controversies that will continue to shape its foreign policy in the years to come.

Weight: 496g
Dimension: 151 x 231 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780230370975
Edition number: 1st ed. 2019