The origins of Russia’s new conflict with the West

The conflict between Russia and the West is evidence of a post-Cold War clash of worldviews that has never been resolved.

Neither Russia nor the West expected such a deep – and for now irreparable – crisis in their relations. The West responded to the annexation of Crimea and to Russia’s egregious violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty with economic sanctions. Putin’s abrupt policy moves, aggravated by the sanctions, precipitated Russia’s economic and social decline. But the West has been unable to make Russia reverse its course. Now, the crisis has gone beyond Ukraine and has raised real concerns about European security.

• Primary Source

ESO: Key Source: EU sanctions against Russia over Ukraine crisis http://www.europeansources.info/record/eu-sanctions-against-russia-over-ukraine-crisis/

ESO: Background information: Europe needs gas and Russia needs cash, so expect an energy-fuelled reconciliation http://www.europeansources.info/record/europe-needs-gas-and-russia-needs-cash-so-expect-an-energy-fuelled-reconciliation/

ESO: Background information: Putin orders troop withdrawal / Putin-Poroshenko to discuss gas and ceasefire at Italy talks http://www.europeansources.info/record/putin-orders-troop-withdrawal-putin-poroshenko-to-discuss-gas-and-ceasefire-at-italy-talks/

---