Russia–United States relations

United States and Russia: A Turbulent Relationship

The United States and Russia maintain a critical foreign relationship with shared interests in nuclear safety and security, nonproliferation, counterterrorism, and space exploration. But the history of their interactions is marked by peaks and valleys, cooperation and conflict. From the early days of the Soviet Union to the present day, the two nations have navigated through a complex web of alliances, tensions, and mutual distrust. The relationship has been shaped by pivotal moments such as the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the annexation of Crimea in 2014, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Early Years: From Revolution to Cold War

Official contacts between the Russian Empire and the new United States of America began in 1776. Russia favored the U.S. during the American Revolution and supported the Union during the Civil War. The Russian Navy wintered in American ports, operating a fur-trade operation in Alaska which was later sold to the U.S. for $7.2 million. Despite these early positive relations, the Cold War brought about a significant shift as the two nations became ideological adversaries.

Post-Soviet Relations: A New Era of Friendship?

After the Soviet Union’s dissolution in 1991, relations between the U.S. and Russia warmed under President Boris Yeltsin. However, this period was short-lived as tensions rose during his second term due to opposition to NATO interventions in Yugoslavia and Kosovo. Vladimir Putin’s presidency marked a shift towards improved cooperation on counterterrorism and arms control but deteriorated as Putin became more authoritarian.

The Bush Years: A Cold War Revisited

Relations between the U.S. and Russia reached their lowest point since the Cuban Missile Crisis following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. International sanctions were significantly expanded by 2014, targeting several state-owned banks and oligarchs. The Bush administration’s conflict with Russia over South Ossetia in 2008 further strained relations, but Obama and Medvedev launched a ‘reset’ in 2009, promising a fresh start.

The Trump Era: A New Chapter?

President Donald Trump took a tougher stance on Russia. Following Alexei Navalny’s arrest, Jake Sullivan condemned the attack and called for accountability. The Kremlin urged the new administration to take a more constructive approach in talks over the New START treaty, which Biden extended by five years with Putin.

The Biden Administration: A Renewed Focus

Under President Joe Biden, the U.S. increased military support to Ukraine through a $650 million arms deal and threatened severe sanctions against Russia and Putin’s allies. The US also imposed sanctions on Russian banks and comprehensive sanctions on Russia’s sovereign debt in response to the recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent republics.

Key Events and Milestones

The United States and Russia have a long history of cooperation and conflict, marked by key events such as:

• The 1991 dissolution of the Soviet Union into 15 independent states, with Russia taking full responsibility for all rights and obligations under the Charter of the United Nations.
• The 2008 US announcement of plans for anti-ballistic missile defense installation in Poland, prompting Russian concerns and warnings from Putin.
• The 2014 Russian annexation of Crimea, which was opposed by the U.S. and led to significant sanctions against Russia.
• The 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which further deteriorated relations between the two nations.

Future Prospects: A Path Forward?

Despite the challenges, there are opportunities for cooperation in areas such as nuclear safety and security, nonproliferation, counterterrorism, and space exploration. Joint military maneuvers and training exercises have taken place in Germany, and a joint missile defense system is being considered between the U.S. and Russia.

Conclusion

The United States and Russia’s relationship has been a complex dance of cooperation and conflict since 1991. While tensions remain high due to ongoing conflicts like Ukraine, there are still areas where both nations can work together for mutual benefit. The key lies in finding common ground and addressing shared challenges through dialogue and collaboration.