The Future of U.S.-Russia Relations

Evidence of Russian interference in the U.S. elections and U.S. sanctions against Russia over the use of a banned nerve agent in the U.K. are the latest signs of deteriorating relations between the former Cold War foes.

The recent Trump-Putin summit was designed to improve relations, but the prospect for rapprochement is uncertain as U.S. lawmakers push for stricter sanctions that Russian Prime Minister Medvedev said would amount to “a declaration of economic war.”

In this Events @ RAND podcast, RAND experts Samuel Charap, Dara Massicot, and Michael J. Mazarr discuss where the U.S.-Russia relationship is heading.

Featured Speakers

Samuel Charap

Senior Political Scientist

Dara Massicot

Policy Researcher

Moderator

Michael J. Mazarr

Senior Political Scientist

Learn More

Walking a Fine Line on Russian Sanctions
Aug 22, 2018
William Courtney @courtneywmh

The United States and its allies are increasingly frustrated over malign activities by Russia. This week the U.S. unveiled new sanctions, and is expected to impose even more in the future. But choosing sanctions requires care. Their purpose should be to penalize Russia for misbehavior, but not to isolate Russians.
How Russia's Military Has Evolved
Dec 7, 2017
Scott Boston, Dara Massicot @MassDara

The Russian armed forces are not like the Soviet Army in size, depth, or global ideological aspirations. But Russia has demonstrated its military competence and operational flexibility in Crimea, eastern Ukraine, and Syria.
Strengthening Strategic Stability with Russia
Jul 5, 2017
Christopher S. Chivvis, Andrew Radin @andrewmradin, et al.

Strategic stability between the United States and Russia is eroding, but the two countries still share a deep interest in avoiding nuclear war. Strengthening stability will be challenging. Meaningful progress will require courage and sacrifices on both sides.
How Does Russia View the International Order?
May 18, 2017
Andrew Radin @andrewmradin, Clint Reach

Russia sees the U.S.-led international order as a threat to its interests. U.S. and Russian interests overlap in some areas, such as counterterrorism. But they are directly opposed in others. What are America's policy options?