Smirnov, A.M. Russia and the NATO within the system of European security.

Abstract: This article is devoted to the studies of the relations between Russia and the NATO within the framework of European security. The topicality of the study is due to the fact that the object and immediate object of studies are regarded within the context of changing geopolitical situation in Europe from the moment of the break-up of the bipolar world and the fall of the USSR. Moreover, the cooperation between Russia and the NATO in the sphere of security influences the transformation of the NATO in the modern conditions of international order. Much attention is paid to cooperation between Russia and the NATO in the sphere of the NATO-Russia Council. Based on the article, the author makes a conclusion that currently the novel strategic nuances of the Western politics are modernized instruments regulating the distance of the USA, the NATO, and the EU from Russia. At the right moment these instruments tune the relations with Russia as being closer, in some cases more distance is provided. The meaning of this geopolitical game is to establish the secure distance between Russia and Europe and guarantee safety from Russian claims. It is also noted in the article that the raw material economy, dysfunctional state apparatus, and a great burden of social problems prevent Russia from efficient efforts necessary to change the attitude to it from the Western world. That is why it is hard for Russia to have equal partnerships with the Euro-Atlantic community in the sphere of security at the post-confrontation period.

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