Dr. Robert English: Russia’s Extensive Engagement in Global Affairs:

I had the opportunity to listen to Dr. Robert English speak about Russia’s overall role in the world and its extensive history. It was interesting to understand Russia’s motives in certain hotly debated topics and news. One particular idea that I found particularly engaging was how Russia viewed its current expansion as “rebalancing” its control and possessions across the world. When the Soviet Union collapsed in the 1990s, Russia faced a depression severely worst than the American Great Depression as well as lose various lands and its own prestige. Dr. English explains that one of Putin’s biggest agenda has been putting Russia at the center stage of the world and push Russia to be recognized as a world power. While Russia and the US are always viewed as two world powers, Dr. English pointed out how much of an advantage the US has over Russia. He mentions the US has land and naval bases across the world while Russia’s military and naval influence isn’t close to the level of the US.

Despite our hostile relations between the US and Russia, Dr. English pointed out how the US shares similar viewpoints with Russia in various cases. For example, the US detests Assad’s government in Syria for his violation of human rights and wants his government replaced. While Russia understands Assad’s violations, Russia supports his government because there’s a possibility that a replaced government could be even worse with recognizing basic human rights as well as favor the US. In the end, both countries simply wish for stability and peace in Syria, yet both nations have a hard time coming to this understanding due to mistrust. It’s about time the US resumes person to person diplomacy and view humanity in Russia.

Credits to Ian for being a great facilitator.