Synopses & Reviews
Includes bibliographical references (p. 377-451) and index.
Synopsis
Russia, once seen as Americas greatest adversary, is now viewed by the United States as a potential partner. This book traces the evolution of American foreign policy toward the Soviet Union, and later Russia, during the tumultuous and uncertain period following the end of the cold war. It examines how American policymakersparticularly in the executive branchcoped with the opportunities and challenges presented by the new Russia. Drawing on extensive interviews with senior U.S. and Russian officials, the authors explain George H. W. Bushs response to the dramatic coup of August 1991 and the Soviet breakup several months later, examine Bill Clintons efforts to assist Russias transformation and integration, and analyze George W. Bushs policy toward Russia as September 11 and the war in Iraq transformed international politics. Throughout, the book focuses on the benefits and perils of Americas efforts to promote democracy and markets in Russia as well as reorient Russia from security threat to security ally. Understanding how three U.S. administrations dealt with these critical policy questions is vital in assessing not only Americas Russia policy, but also efforts that might help to transform and integrate other former adversaries in the future.
Table of Contents
Power and purpose -- George H. W. Bush and Soviet regime change -- Controlling the nukes -- Limited assistance for economic reform -- Bill Clinton's assistance policy -- Our man in Moscow -- Security partners? -- NATO is a four-letter word -- Things fall apart : August 1998 -- Kosovo -- Chechnya, again -- No deals -- George W. Bush and Russia - Lessons -- Appendix: list of interviews