OPINION: Back to Business as Usual With Russia?

The Trump administration wants to get back to business as usual with Russia. But Europe’s interests, I think, diverge 180 degrees, almost from those of the US. Europe can no longer rely on the US defense and security backstop, they have to develop their own autonomous defense capability. Europe will try and stall the US decision, and push back on US pressure for a generalised lifting of Western sanctions on Russia. The above suggests that perhaps a difficult decision/clash is looming for Europe with the U.S. But can Europe resist US pressure? It could be a very difficult decision to make, but it could be worth it in the long-term. It could also lead to an uneven playing field, with European companies complaining of being left disadvantaged in deals with Russia, at European companies’ expense. It would also raise the question of the effectiveness of European sanctions, where the US is allowed to trade with Russia and the EU is not. It will also raise questions about the sustainability of any re-approachment with Russia if the US moves to ease sanctions.

Source: Kyivpost.com  |  Read full article