This discussion will focus on Russia’s relationship with the “near abroad”, neighbors that are newly independent and were former members of the Soviet Union. This has been the subject for speculation and concern in the world press and among global leaders since the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. Recent events in the Ukraine have led to widespread speculation as to the motivation behind Russia’s behavior and stimulated sanctions by the US and the EU. Is this Russia’s first step in a move to acquire territory that was once part of the Soviet Union? Will Russia move into other newly independent countries, such as Georgia? World leaders are looking for effective ways that may influence Putin’s decision-making. In the US there are differing opinions about whether the US is being too passive and in the EU dependent on Russian oil and gas leaders are reluctant to move too aggressively for economic reasons. Can China and the Middle East remain neutral?

• Tuesday, January 6 at the Camden Public Library, 7-8:30PM
• Wednesday, January 7 at the Belfast Free Library, 6:30-8PM
• Thursday, January 8 at the Rockland Public Library, 6-7:30PM

READINGS

The Ukraine Crisis and the Resumption of Great-Power Rivalry
Dimitri Trenin, The Global Think Tank, Carnegie, Moscow Center

Further Rapprochement in Russo China Relations? Opportunities versus Roadblocks
Stephen Blank, The Jamestown Foundation

Inside Putin’s East European Spy Campaign
Massimo Calabresi, TIME

Russia’s Curious Relationship with the Middle East-from Imperial Times to the Present
Mary Elizabeth Malinkin, The Kennan Institute Wilson Center