NATO-Russian Relations: Opportunities and Obstacles
Abstract
This thesis examines the impact of the U.S.-led campaign against terrorism since 11 September 2001 on relations between Russia and NATO. This campaign has provided opportunities to increase cooperation and enhance Russian interactions with NATO's political structure. The thesis also explores the challenges that must be overcome to form a more constructive partnership. Since the attacks of 11 September 2001, international terrorism has become a topic of global concern, challenging existing international security structures. Within this context, the prospects for further NATO-Russia cooperation in building a new Euro-Atlantic security structure have dramatically improved. Areas of NATO-Russia cooperation in the war on terrorism include increased economic interactions, shared intelligence, improved military-to-military exchanges, and enhanced institutional arrangements. The May 2002 adoption of an 'at 2' framework may bring Russia and NATO together as equal partners in selected areas of common interest while preserving the Alliance's prerogative to act independently. Despite the new optimistic atmosphere, however, many factors could affect the prospects for future cooperation. These include the conflict in Chechnya, politics in the Balkans, Russian behavior regarding WMD and missile proliferation, and Russia's nonstrategic nuclear forces (NSNF).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA405832
Entities
People
- Kurt E. Fischl
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School