Suchergebnisse

Explores changes in Russian-Western relations since 11 September 2001. Russia's relations with Europe & the US are traced since the collapse of the Soviet Union, noting Russia's evolution from pro-American foreign policy, through a period of disappointment, to a phase of mutual mistrust. In spite of a consensus among the Russian political elite to give moral & political support to the US after 9/11, there was opposition to military cooperation. Reasons for President Putin's decision to provide military support in Afghanistan are examined, noting it was partly based on difficulties Russia faced because of Islamist extremists, especially in Chechnya. Prerequisites for a broad international antiterrorist coalition are discussed, along with feelings among Russians & Europeans that the US is not truly interested in multilateralism; problems involved in Russia's relations with the European Union & the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, especially in regard to democratization; & the impact of "anti-terrorist" cooperation on Russia's domestic situation. It remains unknown whether closer Russian-Western relations will result in greater differences or a real partnership. J. Lindroth