Redefining Russia-European Union Relations — Is It Possible to Overcome a Deep Crisis?

Jović-Lazić, Ana and Lađevac, Ivona (2021) Redefining Russia-European Union Relations — Is It Possible to Overcome a Deep Crisis? In: Europe in changes: The old continent at a new crossroads. Institute of International Politics and Economics, Belgrade; Faculty of Security Studies at the University of Belgrade, Belgrade, pp. 215-235. ISBN 978-86-7067-282-6

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Abstract

The subject of the research is the analysis of the complex relations between Russia and the EU. The article aims to present how these relations have changed from cooperation and the so-called strategic partnership to a new era in which the tension between them has reached a critical point. The current crisis is the result of relations that have been damaged over time by differing expectations on both sides and a lack of mutual understanding leading to increased tensions and geopolitical rivalries that have, inter alia, affected countries physically located between them. The conflict in Georgia made it clear that interactions between the EU and Russia have been highly complicated, but the Ukrainian crisis has become a turning point in their relations, suggesting irreconcilable differences in their regional policy and approaches to the common neighbourhood. Irrespective of such a difficult issue, it is indicated that the continuation of mutual sanctions and confrontational statements will only further weaken the prospects for resolving the current complex situation. It is concluded that cooperation between Russia and the EU is inevitable, especially when it comes to their common neighbourhood and the need to respond more effectively to open security threats and issues of importance for contemporary international relations.

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