Publication

This paper examines trends in Russian foreign policy vis-à-vis the CIS and the new EU member states. Highlighting differing domestic conceptions of Russia's international role, the author discusses regional integration as an instrument of Russian foreign policy through the creation of a variety of CIS "sub-groups" in the fields of economic relations and security, and more generally through Russian bilateral relations with countries in the region. In light of perceived Russian foreign policy incoherence, exemplified by Russia's role in supporting the losing candidate of Ukraine's 2004 presidential election, the paper concludes that the EU must take a principled stand in defending "EU values" to Moscow.