RUSSIA AND NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY ORGANIZATION: FROM COOPERATION TO FAILED PARTNERSHIP

Abstract

The article shows the process of degradation of the Russian Federation's policy concerning its cooperation with the North Atlantic Alliance. It is emphasized that, after the end of the Cold War, Russia was unduly considered an ally and partner of NATO in building up the architecture of European and world security. It is noted that the deception of Russian behavior was demonstrated as far as Russia-Georgia war of 2008. Further aggressive actions of this state in the international stage, its illegal occupation of the Crimean peninsula, and the unleashing of the hybrid war in eastern Ukraine resulted in the change of geopolitical realities on the European continent and a sharp deterioration of security environment in global dimension. The termination of the Alliance's partnership with the aggressor state has become a logical reaction of NATO to the criminal actions of Russia. However, NATO does not lose hope for its trampling and makes significant efforts to counter the aggressor. At the same time, efforts are being made to minimize risks and increase transparency and predictability. The nature of future relations between the Alliance and Russia will depend on whether the Russian Federation can demonstrate a clear and constructive change in its behavior that would testify to its compliance with international Law and its international duties and obligations. Key words: Russian Federation. North Atlantic Alliance, Partnership for Peace Program, partnership, aggression, hybrid war.