Political and security aspects of EU-Russia relations in the Post-Cold War era : prospects for further developments

Abstract

Following the end of the Cold War the balance of politics in Europe changed. Russia no longer remained the dominant super power it used to be; the United States was willing to reduce its engagement in Europe; while Western Europe was eager to increase its capabilities both to reduce American hegemony on the Continent and to be able to put down fires in its own back yard. The first chapter identifies the major events and developments occurring throughout these fourteen years since the Wall fell; this includes the changes in Russian security and foreign policy thinking as well as the beginning and development of a new relationship between the EU and Russia, starting from the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. Nonetheless, Russia's road to modernization was disrupted by significant internal security challenges, notably with the Chechen conflict. Chapter Two discusses this conflict and its effect on the EU-Russian relationship.