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Understanding Russian Influence In Central And Eastern Europe: A Comprehensive Analysis

Drew Bell

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Published in The Kremlin Playbook: Understanding Russian Influence In Central And Eastern Europe (CSIS Reports)

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Russia has a long and complex history with Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). The region has been a buffer zone between Russia and Western Europe for centuries, and has often been the subject of Russian expansionism. In recent years, Russia has been increasingly active in CEE, and its influence is growing.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of Russian influence in CEE. It explores the historical, political, economic, and social factors that have shaped this relationship, and examines the implications of Russia's growing influence for the region and for Europe as a whole.

The relationship between Russia and CEE dates back to the Middle Ages. In the 10th century, Kievan Rus', a loose confederation of Slavic tribes, emerged in the region. Kievan Rus' was the first major power in the region, and it played a significant role in the development of Russian culture and identity.

The Kremlin Playbook: Understanding Russian Influence in Central and Eastern Europe (CSIS Reports)

by John Jung

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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In the 13th century, Kievan Rus' was conquered by the Mongols. The Mongols ruled the region for over two centuries, and their influence had a lasting impact on Russian society and culture. After the Mongol conquest, Russia emerged as a powerful state, and it began to expand its territory into CEE.

In the 18th century, Russia became a major European power under the rule of Peter the Great. Peter the Great modernized Russia and expanded its territory, including into CEE. In the 19th century, Russia continued to expand its influence in CEE, and it became the dominant power in the region.

Russia's political influence in CEE has been significant for centuries. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Russia was initially seen as a partner for CEE countries seeking to integrate with the West. However, in recent years, Russia has become increasingly assertive in the region, and it is now seen as a major threat to CEE security.

Russia has used a variety of tools to exert political influence in CEE. These include:

Economic coercion: Russia has used its economic power to pressure CEE countries into accepting its policies. For example, Russia has threatened to cut off gas supplies to CEE countries that have supported Ukraine.
Military threats: Russia has threatened to use military force against CEE countries that have opposed its policies. For example, Russia has threatened to invade Ukraine if it joins NATO.
Cyber attacks: Russia has used cyber attacks to target CEE countries that have opposed its policies. For example, Russia has been accused of launching cyber attacks on the Ukrainian government.

Russia's political influence in CEE is a major challenge for the region and for Europe as a whole. Russia's actions have undermined the security and stability of the region, and they have made it more difficult for CEE countries to integrate with the West.

Russia's economic influence in CEE has also been significant. Russia is a major economic partner for many CEE countries, and it is a major source of investment and trade. However, Russia's economic influence in the region is declining, as CEE countries increasingly diversify their economies and look to the West for investment and trade.

Russia's economic influence in CEE is based on a number of factors, including:

Natural resources: Russia is a major exporter of natural resources, such as oil, gas, and minerals. CEE countries are heavily dependent on Russian energy supplies.
Trade: Russia is a major trading partner for many CEE countries. In 2019, Russia was the top trading partner for Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Moldova.
Investment: Russian companies have invested heavily in CEE countries. In 2019, Russian investment in CEE totaled over $10 billion.

Russia's economic influence in CEE has had a mixed impact on the region. On the one hand, Russian investment and trade have helped to boost economic growth in CEE countries. On the other hand, Russia's economic influence has also led to increased dependence on Russia and vulnerability to Russian pressure.

Russia has also had a significant social influence in CEE. Russian culture and language are widespread in the region, and many CEE countries have large Russian-speaking populations. This Russian influence has had a lasting impact on the culture and identity of CEE countries.

Russia's social influence in CEE is based on a number of factors, including:

History: Russia has a long history of interaction with CEE countries, and this interaction has left a lasting legacy on the region.
Culture: Russian culture is widely admired and respected in CEE countries. Many CEE countries have adopted Russian cultural traditions and customs.
Language: Russian is a widely spoken language in CEE countries. Many CEE citizens speak Russian as a second language.

Russia's social influence in CEE has had a mixed impact on the region. On the one hand, Russian culture and language have enriched the culture of CEE countries. On the other hand, Russia's social influence has also led to increased dependence on Russia and vulnerability to Russian propaganda.

Russia's growing influence in CEE is a major challenge for the region and for Europe as a whole. Russia's actions have undermined the security and stability of the region, and they have made it more difficult for CEE countries to integrate with the West.

The implications of Russia's growing influence in CEE for the region and for Europe are:

Increased instability: Russia's actions have increased instability in CEE. Russia's political, economic, and social influence in the region have made CEE countries more vulnerable to Russian pressure.
Greater dependence on Russia:

The Kremlin Playbook: Understanding Russian Influence in Central and Eastern Europe (CSIS Reports)

by John Jung

4.6 out of 5