Russia has always been a major player in international affairs, and its foreign policy decisions have shaped the course of world history. From the Cold War to the present day, Russia’s approach to diplomacy and its interactions with other nations have been the subject of much analysis and debate. Here are the top 5 books on Russia’s foreign policy:
“The New Cold War: Putin’s Russia and the Threat to the West” by Edward Lucas – In this book, journalist Edward Lucas argues that Russia under Putin has become a threat to the West, and that its foreign policy is characterized by aggression and a desire to regain its status as a superpower. Lucas draws on his extensive experience covering Russia to provide a detailed and engaging account of Putin’s policies and their implications for the world.
“The Limits of Partnership: U.S.-Russian Relations in the Twenty-First Century” by Angela E. Stent – Angela Stent, a former U.S. government official and expert on Russia, examines the complicated relationship between the United States and Russia in the 21st century. She argues that the two nations are fundamentally at odds in terms of their strategic goals and interests, and that cooperation is unlikely to be possible without significant changes on both sides.
“The Putin Doctrine: Russia’s Quest to Rebuild the Soviet State” by Douglas E. Schoen and Evan Roth Smith – This book argues that Putin’s foreign policy is motivated by a desire to rebuild the Soviet state and expand Russia’s influence in the world. The authors examine the history of the Soviet Union and Putin’s political career to provide a compelling argument for their thesis.
“Russia’s Foreign Policy: Change and Continuity in National Identity” by Andrei P. Tsygankov – In this book, Andrei Tsygankov explores the historical and cultural factors that shape Russia’s foreign policy, arguing that a strong sense of national identity is central to the country’s approach to international relations. He provides a nuanced and detailed analysis of Russia’s foreign policy decisions and their underlying motivations.
“The Struggle for Ukraine: The Challenge of Russian Hegemony” by Serhy Yekelchyk – This book focuses on Russia’s relationship with Ukraine and the conflict that has erupted between the two nations in recent years. Serhy Yekelchyk provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the historical and cultural factors that have contributed to the conflict, as well as the geopolitical considerations that underpin Russia’s actions.
These books provide a range of perspectives on Russia’s foreign policy and the factors that shape it. Whether you’re an expert in international relations or simply interested in learning more about Russia’s role in the world, these books are a must-read.