Russia: Its Place in the 21st Century and the Implications for the United States

Publication Date: June 2001

Publisher: Hudson Institute

Author(s): Herbert I. London

Research Area: Government

Type: Report

Coverage: Russia (Federation)

Abstract:

Because we still have a vital stake in what happens in Russia, the Hudson Institute decided to convene a group of experts to study U.S.-Russia relations and how America might encourage the emergence of a stable, democratic country. Without casting unduly harsh or premature judgments, the Institute believed nevertheless that American policy had failed to help Russia make the desired transformation. The Institute also anticipated that a new U.S. Administration might assume office in 2001 and a new approach to Russia might ensue. When Russia elected a new President, Vladimir Putin, the time seemed propitious to move forward with this study, “Russia: Its Place in the Twenty-First Century and the Implications for the United States.”

The Hudson Institute brought together the most experienced foreign policy analysts and defense specialists available to assess the current state of the relationship and to make policy recommendations for improving it. U.S. policy toward Russia remains the subject of intense debate in Washington, so we expected the discussions to be lively. But when the sessions occurred in the shadow of President Bill Clinton’s historic meeting with President Putin in Moscow, and also the release of the Cox Committee’s Report on the failures of U.S. policy toward Russia, our deliberations took on added meaning.

Three panels were created, with special attention to selecting bipartisan participants from a variety of professional backgrounds. Panel members included Members of the House and Senate, former intelligence officials, military officers, journalists, scholars, and businessmen.

The first panel addressed Russia’s internal situation, covering corruption, health care, and legal and economic reform.

The second panel analyzed Russian foreign policy and how the United States might adopt valid and more effective principles for dealing with Moscow.

The third panel examined military questions, including the present and future state of Russia’s armed forces.