January, 2002

Post-11 September Russian-US Rapprochement

Nabia Al-Asfahani

President Vladimir Putin's resolution to support the United States in its confrontation of terrorism marks a turning point in the tendencies of Russian foreign policy. This resolution disregarded military leadership as well as the bureaucracy of the Russian ministry of foreign affairs. Putin clarified the determinants that govern Russian participation in the international alliance against terrorism led by the United States. These were the opening of Russian airspace for humanitarian-aid flights; participating in all possible operations for the salvation of Afghan lands; allowing the United States to use military bases in Central Asia affiliated to Russia; and supporting Northern Alliance forces in their confrontation with the Taliban.

The shift in Russian foreign policy from rivalry to cooperation is an attempt to rectify the negative consequences of Russian endeavours during the last decade to adopt an open-door policy with the West. The events of 11 September provided Russia with a golden opportunity. If Russia had not taken the initiative to support the United States, many countries in the region would have done so, especially Uzbekistan which enjoys close security ties with the United States. The participation of Russia in the international campaign against terrorism highlights US recognition of Russian authority in the Caucasus region. It also constitutes a step ahead in the war led by Russia against the separatist Chechens in the framework of the international campaign against terrorism.

The Russian-US rapprochement since 11 September has brought about tangible progress for Russia with regard to its relations with Western Europe. Russian membership of the Western defence alliance was finally accepted and its role in this respect was boosted. Russia also joined the World Trade Organisation (WTO) - which has been its goal for a long time. Russia is also close to attaining another goal represented in the settlement of all foreign debts. However, there are still speculations about the future of this new rapprochement, especially if the United States decides to launch a campaign against Iraq after Afghanistan. This would put Russia in an awkward position in light of the several cooperation agreements it has with Iraq.