This book offers a nuanced and detailed examination of two of the most important current debates about contemporary Russia's international activity: is Moscow acting strategically or opportunistically, and should this be understood in regional or global terms? -- .
This monograph examines the history of missile defense and the current dialogue from a Russian perspective, in order to explain the root causes of Russian alarm. Specific recommendations for managing the Russia relationship in the context of missile defense are given. Important conclusions are also drawn for the purpose of managing the dialogue over missile defense plans not only with Russia as an opponent, but also with European NATO allies as partners and hosts. The latter are especially significant in the light of these partners' heightened hard security concerns following Russian annexation of Crimea and continuing hostile moves against Ukraine. This analysis was completed before the start of Russia's annexation of Crimea in March 2014, but already warned of the prospect of direct military action by Russia in Europe in order to protect Moscow's self-perceived interests.
Focusing on Russia's state mobilization, this Letort Paper delves into how Moscow perceives global threats and the emergency measures being enacted to confront them. It highlights a widening gap between the viewpoints of Washington and Moscow, particularly regarding Euro-Atlantic security issues and conflicts in Libya and Syria. The Russian leadership, led by President Putin, expresses deep concerns about potential regime change efforts targeting Russia, emphasizing the need to learn from recent geopolitical events.
This book offers a crash course in contemporary Russian politics. An updated version of the bestselling 2016 edition, it explores the decline in western relations since the early 2000s, from the disagreements over European security and the war in Syria right up to the invasion of Ukraine. -- .