Brookings: Topics - Russia

U.S.-Russian Arms Control in the 1990s: Experiences and Lessons Learned

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 24, 2009, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

The issue of strategic nuclear arms reductions now tops the U.S.-Russia agenda, particularly as the countries strive to conclude a new nuclear arms agreement to replace the Strategic Arms Reductions Treaty, which expires on December 5. On November 24, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings will host Ambassador Mamedov for a conversation on the experiences and lessons learned from U.S.-Russian arms control efforts in the 1990s.

Protecting Putin's Protection Racket

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When Putin took power in 2000, he established a protection deal among powerful business owners. Clifford Gaddy and Barry Ickes discuss the intricacies of this arrangement and what message a recent suit against one of the country’s leading business newspapers is meant to send.

Vice President Biden Travels to Central Europe

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vice President Biden left Washington early on October 20 for a quick trip to Central Europe, where he will reassure the region of continued U.S. interest and support. Steven Pifer examines the concerns of several NATO member states and offers suggestions for the future of U.S. engagement in the area.

Same Rules, New Dimensions For Mongolia's National Security: Adapting to the New Geo-Economic Environment

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Since its peaceful Democratic Revolution in the early 1990s, Mongolia’s national security strategy has evolved through three phases and is now entering a fourth. Munkh-Ochir Dorjjugder writes that the theme of balancing external actors to ensure sovereignty and security remains the same, but that Mongolia is now adding economic and human elements to its approach to security.

U.S., Russia Must Lead on Arms Control

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ten years ago, the U.S. Senate rejected the comprehensive test ban treaty (CTBT), setting back efforts to reduce the world's stockpiles of nuclear weapons. Brent Scowcroft, Joseph Nye, Nicholas Burns and Strobe Talbott offer the Obama administration their counsel on how to build support for a revised CTBT and a new strategic arms reduction treaty with Russia.

Secretary Clinton in Moscow

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton visits Moscow this week to meet with her counterpart, Foreign Minister Lavrov. Steven Pifer previews the major issues at the top of their agenda: arms control, the broader Middle East and the work of the U.S.-Russia presidential commission.

Global Trends and Shocks in the National Security Environment: Russia and Eurasia

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this chapter of Fighting Chance, prepared for a September 2007 conference, Steven Pifer assesses potential challenges posed by a more assertive Russia. Pifer examines demographic, societal and economic trends in Russia that could create strategic shocks for the region and world over the next several decades.

After START: Hurdles Ahead

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev both see a follow-on agreement to the 1991 Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty as a top priority in U.S.-Russia relations. Steven Pifer writes that while a post-START treaty should not pose any major obstacles, complex nuclear issues are likely to make this the last “easy” arms control agreement between Washington and Moscow.

Reducing Demand for Poppy Inside and Outside Afghanistan

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Afghanistan's drug economy needs urgent attention, but it also needs a smart policy. Emphasizing rural development and legal livelihoods while interdicting drug traffickers and reducing demand worldwide are the best options, says Vanda Felbab-Brown.

A Better Base for Cutting Nuclear Weapons

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama's decision to rethink and revamp the plan for Poland-based defenses against Iranian missiles was met with some criticism at home and in Eastern Europe for giving too much to Russia. However, argues Brookings President Strobe Talbott, the new strategy is a pragmatic step to counter Iran's real short-range missile threat, strengthens the transatlantic alliance, and better serves the goals of U.S.-Russian strategic arms reduction.

Politique étrangère d'Obama: les nuages noirs de l'automne

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaïsse lays out the delicate international issues that await President Obama in the fall. He concludes none of them holds any promise of easy resolution, and the principles on which Obama founded his foreign policy will be severly tested. (French)

Delivering Tough Love to Ukraine, Georgia

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer joined Bernard Gwertzman to discuss Vice President Joseph Biden's recent trip to Ukraine and Georgia and how it was meant to balance President Barack Obama's Moscow summit earlier in the month.

Ukraine’s Geopolitical Choice, 2009

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer analyzes the history of Ukraine’s relations with Russia and the West since the disintegration of the Soviet Union. Pifer also addresses Ukraine’s future geopolitical trajectory in the run-up to the country’s presidential elections in early 2010, and internal problems that will command urgent attention once the political situation in the country stabilizes.

Turkey, Russia and Regional Energy Strategies

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 15, 2009, 9:30 AM to 3:45 PM

On July 15, the Center on the United States and Europe and the Energy Security Initiative at Brookings hosted leading experts from Turkey, Russia and Europe for a conference focusing on Turkey’s and Russia’s roles in European energy security and the role of energy in shaping cooperation and stability in neighboring regions.

Crisis Between Ukraine and Russia

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer writes that continuing political turmoil in Ukraine and tense relations between Kiev and Moscow have increased the potential for Ukraine to tumble into crisis with Russia. Pifer examines how a crisis may be triggered and offers suggestions how to reduce the chances as well has how to manage one should it occur.

Previewing President Obama’s Trip to Russia

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:48:04 GMT

As President Barack Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev meet in Moscow, Steven Pifer says the administration is looking for three key outcomes from the meeting: a new treaty to replace START, a cooperative approach for dealing with Iran and Afghanistan, and a structured mechanism to keep their mutual interests on track.

The Moscow Summit and Improving the U.S.-Russian Relationship

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer looks toward President Obama's July visit to Moscow where he will meet with President Medvedev of Russia. Pifer outlines three outcomes—including a successor to the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty—the U.S. should hope for from the talks.

The Political Crisis in Georgia: Prospects for Resolution

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:15:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 17, 2009, 4:15 PM to 5:30 PM

On June 17, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings will host Irakli Alasania, former Georgian permanent representative to the United Nations and currently the head of the Alliance for Georgia opposition group, for a discussion on the political crisis in Georgia and the prospects for resolution.

China and Russia: When Giants Meet

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hu Jintao's recent visit to Moscow showed off the significant strides in bilateral relations between China and Russia. David Shambaugh notes that the real challenge for the United States and Europe is to engage both nations in a broader global partnership and to break the Beijing-Moscow duopoly that often splits the U.N. Security Council.

Strategies for Engagement: 2009 CUSE Annual Conference

Fri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 29, 2009, 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM

On May 29, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings (CUSE) will host experts and officials from both sides of the Atlantic for the 2009 CUSE Annual Conference to examine the prospect of engagement with Iran and Russia, and how to deal with groups such as Hamas and the Taliban.

The Scouting Report: Next Steps in U.S.-Russian Nuclear Arms Reductions

Wed, 20 May 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 20, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM

In May, U.S. and Russian officials began meetings in Moscow to discuss cutting stockpiles of nuclear weapons. To assesses the considerations of both the United States and Russia and to offer suggestions for building a new framework to reduce strategic arsenals, Brookings expert Steven Pifer and Senior Politico Editor Fred Barbash took questions in this week’s edition of the Scouting Report.

Thinking Big on Nuclear Non-Proliferation

Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The spread of nuclear weapons is one of the deadliest threats to the human race, and over 30 countries have declared intent to develop nuclear programs. In the wake of a meeting between Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov of Russia, Carlos Pascual and Steven Pifer argue that both countries must breathe new life into the Non-Proliferation Treaty regime to strengthen firewalls against proliferation and curtail weaponization.

Beyond START: Negotiating the Next Step in U.S. and Russian Strategic Nuclear Arms Reductions

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In April, President Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev announced they would work on a new agreement to limit offensive arms before the START treaty expires in December. On Monday, the first round of talks on a new strategic arms reduction treaty begin in Moscow. Steven Pifer assesses the considerations of both countries and offers suggestions for building a new framework to reduce strategic arsenals.

Reviving U.S.-Russian Nuclear Arms Control

Wed, 06 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 06, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Nuclear arms control has returned to the top of the U.S.-Russia agenda. President Barack Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev recently agreed to work out a new agreement to reduce strategic offensive arms, part of a process aimed ultimately at a nuclear-free world. On May 6, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted a discussion on the role of nuclear arms control in U.S.-Russia relations and its challenges.

Current Political and Economic Developments in Ukraine

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 15:00:00 GMT

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April 22, 2009, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

On April 22, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Hryhoriy Nemyria for a discussion of the current political and economic developments in Ukraine.

Dangerous Leviathans: Russia's Bad Philosophy

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Strobe Talbott says Russia's aggressive foreign policy over the last decade is ill-suited to today's interdependent, consensus-based world. While Russia's leaders seem to have adopted the philosophical tenets of Thomas Hobbes in their pursuit of an authoritarian state, Talbott says that the cooperative vision of statehood proposed by Immanuel Kant is a better model. "If Russia’s future is to be better than its past," argues Talbott, "then Kant will have to prevail over Hobbes."

Obama Sees Turkey's Influence and Value

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

During President Obama's recent trip to Turkey, former national security adviser Samuel Berger and Brookings visiting fellow Mark Parris wrote that Turkey is worth the time and effort. Though the U.S. and Turkey cannot expect their strategic partnership to be seamless, Turkey can play an important role from Afghanistan to the Middle East and into Europe.

Barack Obama's First NATO Summit

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 15:20:20 GMT

As NATO celebrates its 60th anniversary, Visiting Fellow Steven Pifer says the alliance has serious business to conduct. President Obama and other alliance leaders will address issues of critical importance including unrest in Afghanistan and Russia’s relationship with its neighbors.

Tackling NATO's Challenges

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 30, 2009, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

When President Barack Obama and NATO leaders met in early April to celebrate the NATO alliance’s 60th anniversary, they also confronted the daunting challenges facing NATO today. Prior to the event, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings held a public discussion to preview President Obama’s first NATO summit.

U.S.-Russian Leadership for Global Financial and Energy Security

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 23, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Amid a growing global recession and financial and energy challenges, a new U.S.-Russia relationship offers promise for new models of cooperation aimed at long-term solutions. On March 23, Brookings hosted a panel of Russian and American experts to discuss international cooperation on energy security, the financial architecture, and other key challenges.

Engaging Ukraine

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 17, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On March 17, the Center on the United States and Europe (CUSE) hosted experts Steven Pifer, Anders Aslund and Jonathan Elkind for a discussion of their new Brookings policy paper, Engaging Ukraine in 2009. They also discussed the challenges facing Ukraine and offered recommendations to the Obama administration.

Engaging Ukraine in 2009

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ukraine and Ukrainians will be tested over the course of 2009. Anders Åslund, Jonathan Elkind and Steven Pifer discuss U.S. interests in a successful Ukraine and describe four key challenges currently facing Kyiv. They also offer recommendations for strengthening U.S.-Ukrainian relations and for helping Ukraine to meet these challenges and continue its transformation into a modern, successful European democracy.

How to Improve U.S.-Italy Relations and Why They Matter

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On the occasion of the first meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini, Federiga Bindi discusses the state of Italy-U.S. relations and suggests ways to improve them.

An Agenda for U.S.-Russian Relations in 2009

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the Bush administration came to a close, U.S.-Russian relations had fallen to their lowest point since the collapse of the Soviet Union. In testimony before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Steven Pifer discussed how the Obama administration can engage Russia to meet challenges such as controlling nuclear materials, pressing Iran to forgo nuclear arms, maintaining access to Afghanistan, and countering international terrorism.

A Russian "Reset Button" Based on Inclusion

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vice President Joseph Biden made headlines by proclaiming the Obama administration’s intention to "press the reset button” in U.S.-Russian relations. While some world capitals are concerned that Russia is cracking down at home and throwing its weight around abroad, Strobe Talbott explains that the Russians have provided an opening for renewed diplomacy and that the United States and its partners should encourage them to integrate into a globalized world.

Engaging Russia: The Challenges and Opportunities

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:15:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 19, 2009, 4:15 PM to 5:45 PM

On February 19, the Center on the United States and Europe hosted a discussion on improving relations between the West and Russia and the barriers to achieving that goal.

Russia's Economic Policy at a Crossroads

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Russia expert Clifford Gaddy discusses a range of Russian economic and political issues in an interview with Bloomberg’s Tom Keene. From U.S.-Russia relations to Russia’s current economic challenges and the Russian perspective, Gaddy offers insight into Russia’s policies.

Continuity and Change in Korea: Challenges for Regional Policy and U.S.-Russia Relations

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow Working Paper, Georgy Toloraya writes that the United States and the other parties concerned must begin to consider three key issues as they seek to convince North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons program: the future of the North Korean state, the basis of its long-term security, and the shape of a new regional security order.

A New Start in Transatlantic Relations: The View from the Czech EU Presidency

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 16:00:00 GMT

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February 09, 2009, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

On February 9, the Center on the U.S. and Europe (CUSE) at Brookings and the Heinrich Böll Foundation hosted Czech Foreign Minister Karel Schwarzenberg for a public address on the transatlantic relationship.

Averting Crisis in Ukraine

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer comprehensively analyzes Ukraine's difficulties, related to both domestic conditions and foreign policy, and recommends ways for the United States to encourage Ukraine on a path of stability and integration with the West.

Russia's Economic Meltdown: Consequences and Prospects for the Future

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Moscow faces the prospect of serious turmoil as protests in response to the financial crisis spread throughout Russia. What underlying policies beyond the global financial crisis gave rise to the current problem and how well is the Putin administration weathering the storm? At a recent event by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Clifford Gaddy and Barry Ickes discussed the main issues.

Russia's Economic Meltdown: Consequences and Prospects for the Future

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

January 28, 2009, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM

Reversing the Decline: An Agenda for U.S.-Russian Relations in 2009

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the new U.S. president takes office, U.S.-Russian relations are at the lowest level since the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union. According to Steve Pifer, several unresolved and problematic issues dominate the this relationship. Pifer suggests that the incoming Obama administration seek a balanced approach toward Russia, making clear that Russia must not violate international norms while encouraging Russian cooperation and integration with international institutions.

Europe's Gas Crisis: Don't Act Surprised

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jonathan Elkind and Edward Chow examine the causes of a chronic gas war between Ukraine and Russia. They offer suggestions for Kiev to push ahead with reform that could help Ukraine receive urgent and coordinated support from Western friends.

The Russia-Ukraine Natural Gas Battle

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following a dispute between Russia and Ukraine, Gazprom halted natural gas shipments through Ukraine, prompting shortages across Europe and growing calls of alarm. In an interview on the Diane Rehm Show, Clifford Gaddy discusses the essence of this dispute and the risks for Russia’s reputation.

Putin's Third Way

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With the rise in oil prices and a conservative fiscal policy, Russia turned from a debtor nation into an economic powerhouse. Putin’s strategy created a compromise between the excesses of the free market and the inefficiencies of a command economy. Yet there remain deep cracks in the foundation of the post-Soviet structure. In a recent article in The National Interest, Clifford Gaddy and Barry Ickes discuss whether or not his Putinomics can survive the financial crisis.

Frontiers of Europe

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 16, 2008, 9:00 AM to 6:00:00 PM
December 17, 2008, 9:00 AM to 1:45 PM

On December 16-17, 2008, the Brookings Center on the United States and Europe, Yalta European Strategy and the Victor Pinchuk Foundation hosted a high-level conference in Kyiv, Ukraine as part of the “Frontiers of Europe” project.

Sanctioning Iran: Current Impact, Future Prospects

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 16, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The sixth session of the Iran Working Group was held on December 16, 2008, at Brookings. Several analysts shared their expertise on the current state of sanctions against Iran – in particular, on the current measures targeting certain Iranian banks – and on the prospects for the incoming U.S. administration to achieve multilateral consensus on a diplomatic strategy toward Tehran, particularly from key actors such as Russia and China.

Don't Rush Georgia and Ukraine into NATO

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Press reports indicate the Bush administration is pursuing a final bold foreign policy move -- agreeing to offer Georgia and Ukraine rapid membership to NATO by bypassing normal procedures. Michael O'Hanlon argues this is a bad idea, writing it is likely to worsen U.S.-Russia relations and increase the risk of war.

What the G-20 Wants

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

World leaders gathered in Washington, D.C. to respond to the international financial crisis. The Managing Global Insecurity project and The Chicago Council on Global Affairs hosted a special online forum of global perspectives on the summit. The result is an intriguing glimpse into pivotal issues that will continue to dominate discussions about the crisis.

Ukraine, Georgia and MAP – Time for Plan B

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer believes bids by Ukraine and Georgia for NATO membership action plans (MAPs), though strongly supported by the U.S., are likely to fail. Pifer says involved parties should accept that asking for MAPs in December is a recipe for defeat, but also that NATO should make it clear to Russia it cannot draw new lines through Europe.

Can Russia Compete? Enhancing Productivity and Innovation in a Globalizing World

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 15, 2008, 3:00 PM to 5:00PM

On October 15, 2008, Brookings co-hosted a discussion with the World Bank InfoShop on Can Russia Compete? Enhancing Productivity and Innovation in a Globalizing World. After escaping economic bankruptcy within the past ten years, Russia now needs to set its sights beyond oil and gas. Co-editors Raj M. Desai and Itzhak Goldberg focus on Russia's neglected manufacturing sector; and quantify and benchmark the relative strengths of the sector, identifying opportunities to increase the emerging economy's productivity and competitiveness.

Top 10 Global Economic Challenges Facing America's 44th President

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As President-Elect Obama prepares to lead the United States, what are the top global economic challenges facing the new president and his advisors and how should the new administration address them? A new report by Brookings global economic and development experts ranks the top 10 issues and details specific ideas for how to tackle the toughest challenges.

Setting a Constructive Russia Agenda

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview with Bernard Gwertzman of Council on Foreign Relations, Steven Pifer said U.S.-Russian relations have "deteriorated significantly" since the Putin-Bush summit of 2002. Pifer believes the current state of relations has not left much in the U.S. diplomatic tool-kit to use against Moscow, and he suggests that the next administration try to return to negotiations on limiting strategic arms.

Russia's Stock Market Fall: It's All About Oil

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cliff Gaddy explores the widely held idea that Russia's recent invasion of Georgia was a primary cause for the Russian stock market to plummet. Instead, Gaddy believes the global decline in oil prices—now nearly 30% off highs in July—is a more likely reason.

What Does Russia Want? How Do We Respond?

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer spoke before the George Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M to outline Russia's ambitions in the world, and what the U.S. can do to respond. Pifer believes that U.S. policy must be firm and principled, but it must also treat Russia as more of a partner than a problem going forward.

Georgia's Lessons for Taiwan

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Jeffrey Bader and Douglas Paal believe the Russian attack on Georgia can provide several important lessons for Taiwan in regards to China. Among the most important is that "a constructive relationship between the United States and major powers is an essential component of security for vulnerable states."

Il peso della storia nella crisi georgiana

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi discusses the recent crisis in Georgia. (Italian)

How Not To Punish Moscow

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cliff Gaddy discusses the politics of managing the situation between Russia and Georgia, advising that using economics as a tool poses risks on a global scale.

Russia Moved Due to U.S. Weakness

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Benjamin writes that in addition to the regional consequences of the crisis between Georgia and Russia, the conflict presented challenges for U.S. foreign policy. Benjamin argues that Russia's invasion of Georgia is the result of U.S. and European failure to integrate Russia into the Western sphere and points to the lack of a coherent U.S. foreign policy toward Russia overall.

Global Turmoil: Pakistan, Russia, Georgia and Iran

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

How can the interconnection of Pakistan, Russia, Georgia and Iran affect the United States? Brookings President Strobe Talbott, Ted Koppell and Neal Conan discussed this question on NPR's Talk of the Nation.

Securing Georgia

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The military conflict between Russia and Georgia over two breakaway regions has subsided, but continues on in strained relations between Russia and western powers, including the United States. Carlos Pascual and Steven Pifer propose a 10-point plan to monitor events on the ground in Georgia, mobilize NATO and the UN, and enforce international law.

Russia and the Future

Sun, 17 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the aftermath of the conflict between Russia and Georgia continues to unfold, Michael O'Hanlon offers near-term solutions as well as a longer-term strategy for both countries and the region as a whole. He notes that while Russia's behavior has been inexcusable, the U.S. will still need cooperation on important issues like Iran and North Korea.

Resurgent Russia Challenges U.S. Diplomacy

Sat, 16 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The United States has found itself in a difficult position with the conflict between Georgia and Russia. Strobe Talbott talks with Scott Simon about U.S. relations in the region.

Russia's Ominous New Doctrine?

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Strobe Talbott asks whether Russian policy has changed with regard to the permanence of borders. Because of its "rampage" through Georgia, the next U.S. administration will have to reexamine the underlying basis for the whole idea of partnership with Russia and its continuing integration into a rule-based international community.

South Ossetia Conflict Holds Lessons for Kyiv

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the conflict between Russia and Georgia continues, Steve Pifer notes that Russia is playing a serious game within the former Soviet space, and that Ukraine must respond by preparing to deal with the issues. Pifer offers several suggestions for Kyiv to reduce its vulnerability to Russian pressure.

The War in Georgia: Assessing the Aftermath

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 10:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

August 14, 2008, 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM

The military clash between Russia and Georgia is one of the most serious crises of the post-Soviet and Cold War era. Daniel Benjamin, director of the Center on the United States and Europe, hosted a panel of foreign policy experts, including Brookings President Strobe Talbott, in a discussion of the implications and possible solutions to the Ossetia conflict.

War in Georgia—End of an Era, Beginning a New Cold War?

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With violence erupting between Georgia and Russia, Johannes Linn analyzes the serious dilemmas confronting both countries and their citizens as well as the consequences for the global community. Linn examines the reemergence of a cold-war mentality, calls for a swift halt of Russia’s military actions and provides recommendations for the world’s response to the conflict.

Il voto sullo Zimbabwe nella partita a scacchi tra Usa e Russia

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi assesses Zimbabwe under Robert Mugabe and Russia's veto of proposed United Nations sanctions against the country. (Italian)

A New Approach to Missile Defense in Europe

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer addresses the Bush administration's continued desire to install a missile defense system in Europe to counter Iranian weapon threats. Pifer believes that because Iran has not yet developed a missile capable of reaching all of Europe or the U.S., the program's timetable should be slowed to ensure all interested parties, including Russia, are comfortable with the plans.

Can Russia Compete? : Enhancing Productivity and Innovation in a Globalizing World

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The original research and analysis of Desai, Goldberg, and their colleagues will be of use to anyone interested in the problems of building manufacturing competitiveness, especially in Russia and the post-Soviet transition economies.

Russia's Addiction : The Political Economy of Resource Dependence

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Through alternating periods of boom and bust, Russia’s fortunes and the legacies of its leaders have been dependent on the fluctuating value of its oil and natural gas.

McCain pourrait faire une vraie ouverture vers l'Iran, comme Nixon en Chine en 1972

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse joined LeMonde.fr to discuss foreign policy in the presidential campaign. Vaisse compares Barack Obama with John McCain on the issues, and also in terms of ideology and political instincts. (French)

U.S.-Europe Relations: What Role for NATO?

Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ivo Daalder joins The Economist to speak about the evolving nature of NATO. The diffusion of American power and how the organization needs to handle the Kremlin are among several topics discussed.

Main Trends of Russia’s Foreign Policy in Transforming East and Southeast Asia

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As Russia’s global influence has risen in recent years, its policies toward East and Southeast Asia have become reanimated. In this Brookings Northeast Asia Commentary, Russian scholar Vladimir Kolotov outlines the evolving strategic landscape in East Asia, highlighting the crucial position occupied by Vietnam, and explores Russia’s priorities for the region under President-elect Dmitry Medvedev.

Evaluating Putin’s Legacy

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 10, 2008, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

On 10 March 2008, former National Security Advisor Zbigniew Brzezinski shared his thoughts on Vladimir Putin’s presidency and Russia’s achievements during this time. At the core of Dr. Brzezinski’s speech was the distinction between Russia’s short-term economic success and the negative long-term effects of President Putin’s policies on the country’s political system, economy, and geopolitical prospects. He also compared the results of Putin’s presidency with what Russia could have achieved through other policies.

Putin’s Plan: The Future of "Russia Inc."

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dmitri Medvedev—Vladimir Putin’s hand-picked successor—won Russia's recent presidential election. Clifford Gaddy, senior fellow and a Russia expert at Brookings, examines the future for Russia by analyzing “Putin’s Plan” for continuity of policy and what it means for international and domestic relations, and the economy.

Russia's Virtual Economy

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The virtual economy was the system of informal rent-distribution that arose in post-Soviet Russia in the 1990s as nonviable Soviet-era manufacturing industries sought to protect themselves from the discipline of the market. The article discusses the system’s historical roots, describes some of its characteristic phenomena, and outlines a model for behavior of enterprises.

Russia Resurgent: The Once and Future Superpower

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Fueled by rising revenues from its vast oil reserves, Russia is experiencing a sudden comeback from its economic and political collapse just sixteen years ago. This program will consider what Russia’s re-emergence as a global force could mean for the already diminishing constraints of arms control and for a renewed power struggle between Russia and the U.S. in an increasingly multi-polar world. Brookings Scholar Clifford Gaddy speaks about Russia, past and present.

Superpower Interventions and Their Consequences for Democracy

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

William Easterly, with co-authors Shanker Satyanath and Daniel Berger, tackle the impact of superpower interventions on democracy, examining the type of effect of the intervention and whether it matters whether the superpower is democratic or authoritarian.

The Geopolitics of Energy: From Security to Survival

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Since the industrial revolution the geopolitics of energy – who supplies it, and securing reliable access to those supplies – have been a driving factor in global prosperity and security. Over the coming decades, energy politics will determine the survival of the planet.

Russia is Crucial to Action over a Nuclear Iran

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Following a report by the IAEA stating that Iran continues to violate its nuclear commitments, the United States hopes to further tighten sanctions. Instead, Philip Gordon notes "America needs to prepare for another contingency - that Russia will block action at the Security Council despite the IAEA report."

Russian Election Results and U.S.-Russia Relations

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings Senior Fellow Clifford Gaddy joins Diane Rehm and guests for analysis of the parliamentary election results in Russia and what they mean for the future of democracy there.

Collapse of an Empire: Lessons for Modern Russia

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 13:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 03, 2007, 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM

Brookings launched the English-language edition of Collapse of an Empire: Lessons for Modern Russia (Brookings Institution Press, 2007). Author Yegor Gaidar discussed why this once-powerful state was doomed to fail eventually, and why Russians should be looking forward rather than backward in building their nation.

Russia’s East Asian Strategy: The Korean Challenge

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Georgy Toloraya argues that the Korean Peninsula has changed radically since the end of 2006 and that Korea will play a greater and much different role in East Asia than it did in the past.

Central Asia: A New Hub of Global Integration

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Central Asia, once viewed as the backyard of the Soviet Union, is now Eurasia's hub of economic integration. Johannes Linn, Brookings Scholar and Special Adviser to the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Program (CAREC), explains what a recent spate of high-level meetings mean for the future of Central Asia, Eurasia and the rest of the world.

Winter of Discontent? U.S., Russia on Arms and Arms Control

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 19, 2007, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

In this installment of the Ed A. Hewett Forum, Professor Catherine Kelleher of the University of Maryland shared her perspective on the US position on arms control and missile defense, along with Russian reactions.

Building a Constructive U.S.-Russian Relationship

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Strobe Talbott testified before a congressional committee that in the contentious dialogue between the United States and Russia, where domestically popular Vladimir Putin continues to assert state power, we must get the tone and tactics right in a "long-term strategy of inducing Russia to accept the terms and standards of the international community." Talbott focused particularly on energy issues, arms control and Russia's accession to the World Trade Organization.

Issues in the U.S.-Russia Economic Relationship

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In this congressional testimony, Cliff Gaddy examined what is at stake in the U.S.-Russian economic relationship—specifically the business climate in Russia—arguing that "the truly important part of the Russian economy that matters for the outside world, including the United States, is oil and gas."

A Conversation on Russia with Senator Richard G. Lugar

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 10:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 08, 2007, 10:30 AM to 12:00:00 PM

Brookings hosted Senator Richard G. Lugar (R-Ind.), the ranking Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, for a conversation on Russia. Russia's path forward since the collapse of the Soviet Union has been a turbulent mix of openness and retrenchment.

Georgia in the International Arena: Rising Responsibilities, Rising Challenges

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 10, 2007, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

H.E. Gela Bezhuashvili, Georgia’s foreign minister, discussed his country’s domestic and foreign policy at a September event. Bezhuashvili talked about Georgia’s relations with the United States, it democratic transformation, prospects for further integrating Georgia into the Euro-Atlantic community, and its relations with Russia.

'Punish France, Ignore Germany, Forgive Russia' No Longer Fits

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Philip H. Gordon, E!Sharp (September/October 2007)

An Impossible Trinity?: Resources, Space, and People

Sun, 01 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Clifford Gaddy (4/14/07)

The Emerging Pattern of Geopolitics

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Speech by Peter W. Rodman, US Army War College, 18th Annual Strategy Conference (3/28/07)

Russo-Chinese Ties Need Not Worry U.S.

Tue, 27 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Interview with Carlos Pascual, Reuters (3/27/07)

Global Agenda Forum

Tue, 20 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 20, 2007 at 12:00 AM

As the forces of globalization gain strength and speed, the challenges and opportunities presented to policymakers, corporate heads and civil society leaders have grown more complex. The Brookings Global Agenda Forum spotlighted the top international challenges for the year and offered in-depth, exclusive analysis.

Current Russia-North Korea Relations: Challenges and Achievements

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Policy toward North Korea is an important component of Russia's general strategy toward the Asia-Pacific region, which is now regarded by Moscow as a crucially important area. This growing emphasis on Asia is evidenced by President Vladimir Putin's increased participation in APEC summits including the November 2005 meeting in Pusan, South Korea, and Russia's development of a dialogue partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). During the first Russia-ASEAN summit, held in Malaysia just before the East Asian Summit in December 2005, President Putin gave a speech to the participants of the nascent East Asian Community (EAC), a new multidimensional integration association in the region.

The Russian Economy in the Year 2006

Mon, 01 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Clifford Gaddy article from Post-Soviet Affairs number 1, 2007

As Russia Looks East: Can It Manage Resources, Space and People?

Mon, 01 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Clifford Gaddy article from Gaiko Forum, January 2007

The Future of Russian Energy Policy

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 30, 2006, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM