Tragedy lights a fire under Russia

Commentary feature. In the natural disasters of August 2010 and earlier in Russia, Neil Buckley sees a demonstration of need for modernisation in Russia.

Commentators have also noted a shift in foreign policy. Diplomacy, according to this new thinking, must become a servant of Russia’s modernisation project. And that means rebuilding bridges with the west – the only source of both the investment and technology Russia needs.

ESO: Background information: Disasters undermine Russians’ faith in the state http://www.europeansources.info/record/disasters-undermine-russians-faith-in-the-state/

ESO: Background information: Wildfires highlight dysfunctional Russia http://www.europeansources.info/record/wildfires-highlight-dysfunctional-russia/

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