Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Russian ‘soft power’ has been expanding in Lebanon, and a number of recent developments prove it.
While the proxy war in Syria does hold the potential for a clash between U.S. and Russian forces, it is only one of several theaters in which a larger conflict between the two countries is playing out.
The breakdown in Moscow’s relations with the West has resulted in its major geopolitical pivot to Asia and the pursuit of an even closer relationship with China.
The One World of Pax Americana that has existed since the end of the Cold War is already history. US global dominance is still in place, but the peace has been shattered again. The new era is not a replay of the 20th century contest. It may be equally dangerous, but in its own way.
In the past, arms control has served as a continuation of politics. Yet amid the U.S.-Russian standoff today, there is no guarantee that logic will continue to apply.
Policymakers need to learn from their military subordinates: They should keep their heads cool and think of the consequences of their actions, both intended and unintended.
Gabriel Gorodetsky presents the recently published diaries of the Soviet Ambassador in London from 1932-43. Not only was Ivan Maisky a confidant of top officials and politicians in his host capital, but he oversaw Soviet-British relations during the onset and early years of WWII.
Diplomacy won’t transform the adversarial relationship with Putin’s Russia, but it can manage it.
China and Russia have grown increasingly close over the past decade, but the imbalance of power between Beijing and Moscow is increasing. Although their partnership in Central Asia is stable for now, Chinese economic, political, and soft power is shifting the geopolitical landscape.
India may soon close a deal with Russia to purchase two S-400 air defense systems, thereby triggering secondary sanctions from the United States. Without Congressional action, the U.S.-India defense relationship will likely suffer.
Stay connected to the Global Think Tank with Carnegie's smartphone app for Android and iOS devices