Abstract: This article examines the counterterrorism policy of Germany during the third term of Angela Merkel, when the spread of terrorist threat in the territory of Germany has increased. The subject of this research is the activity of law enforcement authorities in development and implementation of German counterterrorism policy strategy, which include preemptive and prevention measures, forcible methods, and share of intelligence between the departments. The goal of this work consists in analysis and assessment of the achievements and failures of counterterrorism policy of Germany. Neorealism served as the key approach used in the course of this research. The conclusion is made that successfully consolidated activity of Merkel’s government and law enforcement authorities led to decrease in the number of terrorist attacks and strengthening of political stability in Germany. For indicating achievements and problematic aspects of German counterterrorism activity during the indicated period, the author translated from German the reports of law enforcement authorities on the instances of violence and prevented terrorist attacks, as well as mass media materials testifying to successful prevention of terrorist attacks. The acquired materials can be valuable in teaching corresponding disciplines and within the framework of scientific research.

Keywords: counterterrorism operations, departments, counterterrorism policy, terrorist attacks, terrorism, security, state, FRG, security policy, extremism

Abstract: This article examines the phenomenon of political stability. The author describes and narrows down the definition of "political stability", and offers his own definition of the term. The main conclusion of the article is that political stability is both, a dynamic and sustained state of a political system which enables its preservation, the main instruments of which are the governing bodies on all levels, including municipalities, and the organizations of civil society. The author also reaches a conclusion on the stability of modern Russia. Using general science and specific methods and approaches enables the author to determine the main criteria for political stability and to point out some of the mechanisms for its sustenance. The fruits of the author's work which were reflected in this article may be used by professionals in scientific research in the area at hand. The criteria of political stability that were offered by the author maybe employed in comparative analysis within comparative political science research. They also may contribute to the improvement for the expert-and analytical support of the government's work.

Keywords: Russian policy, political system, maintaining political stability, political mechanisms, political institutions, political interests, political stability, system stability, political processes, political relations

Abstract: The article analyzes the history and current state of the US national missile defense system deployment in Europe in the context of the evolution of Russia - NATO relations. To prove the thesis of the inefficiency of placement of the defense complex for the purposes of protection against Iranian missiles, the author pays special attention to the analysis of its technical capabilities. The methodological basis of the study consists of the systemic, structural-functional, comparative-historical, comparative-political, geo-political, cultural and civilizational approaches, the methods of analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, modeling, observation. The NMD deployment project in Eastern Europe is incapable of enhancing the defensive capabilities of Europe, nor the U.S., nor Russia. The partnership between the two parties can be continued only on the basis of equality, within the framework of international law on the basis of legally binding intergovernmental agreements.

Keywords: interests, democracy, color revolutions, hybrid war, state, USA, society, politics, OTAN, security

Abstract: Brazil is the largest country in size and population in comparison to other Latin American countries, and it is the seventh largest economy in the world by nominal GDP. Since the mid 2000’s, Brazil has become a more attractive global player: it has diversified its economy and its partnerships, and launched the Growth Acceleration Plan (2007) in order to increase investment in infrastructure and provide tax incentives for economic growth. Brazil has also decreased domestic poverty through development plans: according to the World Bank, poverty (people living with USD 2 per day) has fallen from 21% of the population in 2003 to 11% in 2009. An overall view of Brazilian economy shows that the level of foreign direct investment is increasing, the wages are rising, the middle class in growing, and the unemployment rate is low, which offers a wide range of opportunities in different areas. Despite the positive scenario, Brazil is an emerging economy and faces issues and challenges to be surpassed. Brazil is a thriving economy that welcomes foreign investment that is aligned with its main principles. It is also a global player in economic terms and in global and regional issues. The 2014 elections are coming and the unpredictable political and economic scenario is once more arriving. The commercial and economic partnerships should remain both diversified and traditionalist, with Brazil’s national interests set as priorities.

Keywords: mezhdunarodnye otnosheniya, vneshnyaya politika, Braziliya, geopolitika, konfliktologiya, diplomatiya, gosudarstvo, interesy, tsennosti