Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin and Russian Foreign Policy for the New Millenium: A New Approach 2001-2002

摘要

Russian foreign policy during 2001-2002 revealed an entirely new approach as President Vladimir Putin and his Foreign Minister, Igor Ivanov, expanded the scope of Russian external relations both in terms of numbers of nations and the depth of the relationships. The preceding administration of Boris Yeltsin had alienated many people both internally and externally and there was much to do to repair the damage. The events of 11 September vaulted the Russians into a position of prominence that Putin and Ivanov could not imagine possible. A fast and firm show of support for the United States by Putin and his promise to assist in the war against terrorism in any way put Moscow at the center of the war against terrorism, both as a regional hegemon and as a U.S. partner. In the Middle East and Asia, the Russians have made every effort to make it clear that they are on the side of the 'little guy'. They have forged close military and diplomatic relationships with Iraq, Iran, India, and even China (though more cautiously). In addition, they have worked hard to stand behind the Palestinian Authority and effectively enhanced their position in the settlement negotiations. They have done so well vis-a-vis the solution that they have been included in the so-called 'Quartet of Mediators' on the Palestinian- Israeli conflict that includes the United States, the United Nations, and the European Union. In Europe, the Russians have successfully increased both their access and status in NATO. At the same time, Russia has made significant inroads with the European Union and the World Trade Organization. Moscow also has rekindled relationships in Central and South America, including personal visits to Brazil and Argentina. Russia's relations with the United States have clearly improved, with Bush and Putin forging both a personal and professional connection. However, there is still some Cold War feeling remaining between the two powers as well as competition for influence. (37 refs.) 7.