Key aspects of Russia’s current foreign and security policy

This briefing provides an overview of Russia's current foreign policy. A number of recent documents produced by Russian lawmakers — including the 'Foreign Policy Concept' (2008), the 'National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation to 2020' (2009), the 'Military Doctrine until 2020' (2009) and the new presidential decrees — provide a basis for analysis.

Significant projects, conflicts and partners are also explored in the paper. By focusing on the guiding principles of Russia's current foreign policy, placing an emphasis on security issues, and on topics germane to the EU-Russian agenda, this briefing aims to assist stakeholders in the EU and the European Parliament to survey the apparently shifting ground in Moscow.