Безпековий вимір міжнародних відносин в Східній та Центральній Європі в контексті російської агресії

Abstract

The article covers the security aspects of international relations in Eastern and Central Europe in the context of Russian aggression against Ukraine. This region is seen by Russia as an area of its domination in which it is ready to fight by all means, including military aggression. The status and prospects of the Intermarium project are determined, the role of the Bucharest Nine in counteracting Russian expansion is outlined, the specific features of the current aggressive policy of the Russian Federation are shown. Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and Russia’s hybrid actions against the West have put on the agenda the need to strengthen strategic solidarity in Eastern and Central Europe. For all Eastern and Central European countries, the ability to protect oneself from hostile external influences and the ability to guarantee sustainable development are critical. That is why it is important to strengthen the allies’ relations in the region with NATO. Strategic communication mechanisms are of key importance in the conditions of Russia’s aggressive policy, providing activities aimed at creating public support for democracy, the rule of law, human rights protection, public transparency and long-term democratic orientation in foreign policy. The countries of Eastern and Central Europe are in fact at the epicentre of the struggle between Western and Moscow civilizations. There is no evidence that the Russian leadership is regarding the opportunity to reconsider its approach to relations with the outside world. On the contrary, Russian officials continue to accuse the EU and NATO member states, as well as their allies and partners, of being hostile to Russia, particularly in its recent ultimatums. Moscow blames the West for trying to use the former socialist countries and some former Soviet republics in its policies against the Russian Federation. The challenge to the democratic world from the Russian Federation includes international legal, economic, political, and informational aspects. The consolidation of the West (including Ukraine and all Eastern and Central European countries as an integral part of it) can stop Russian aggression and punish it for systemic violations of international law.