战略与国际研究中心-Russia-and-Eurasia-Program-Update-August_2页_202kb

August-September 2007 Summary

Core Content

The period of August to September 2007 was marked by a series of significant events and publications related to Russian politics, security, and international relations. Key figures from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), including Director and Senior Fellow Andrew Kuchins and Senior Fellow Sarah E. Mendelson, were actively involved in discussions and media appearances, highlighting the program's engagement with Russian political and security issues.

Main Events

• Valdai International Discussion Club (September 10-14):
  Andrew Kuchins participated in this event, which brought together approximately 70 experts from various countries, including Russia, the U.S., Europe, China, and Japan.
  • Participants: High-ranking Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin and First Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov.
  • Focus: The meeting centered on religion and identity in Russia, though it also included discussions on recent political developments.
  • Visual: A photo of Andrew Kuchins with Sergei Ivanov was included in the documentation.

Recent Commentary

• Cory Welt's Commentary:
  On August 27, Cory Welt authored a commentary titled "Russia and Georgia: The Message Behind the Missile?" exploring the geopolitical implications of Russia's military actions in Georgia.
  • Link: The full commentary is available for reading.

Publications

• Andrew Kuchins' Column:
  On September 28, Kuchins published a column in the Washington Post titled "What is Putin's Plan?" analyzing potential strategies of Russian leadership.

  • Link: The article can be accessed online.

• CSIS and Robert Bosch Stiftung Report:
  On September 18, a joint report titled "49 Steps To Improve Human Rights and Security in the North Caucasus" was released.

  • Languages: Available in English, Russian, and French.
  • Link: The report is accessible in the specified languages.

• Sarah Mendelson and Ted Gerber Op-Ed:
  On August 3, the duo published an op-ed in the Washington Post focusing on Russian youth and their role in the country's future.

  • Link: The article can be read online.

• Book Reviews by Andrew Kuchins:

  • On August 29, Kuchins reviewed Robert Kagan's Dangerous Nation in The National Interest Online.
  • He also published a Russian version of the review in the May-June edition of Pro et Contra.
  • Links: Both reviews are available for reading.

Media Appearances

• BBC Radio (September 19):
  Sarah E. Mendelson was featured to discuss the 49 Steps report, emphasizing its importance for human rights and security in the North Caucasus.

  • Link: The interview is available for listening.

• Moscow Times (September 17):
  Andrew Kuchins was quoted in an article titled "Putin Talks of 5 Possible Successors," addressing the potential future leadership of Russia.

  • Link: The article is available for reading.

• Wall Street Journal (September 12):
  Sarah E. Mendelson was quoted in an article titled "Looking Post-Putin," reflecting on the implications of a potential post-Putin era in Russian politics.

  • Link: The article can be accessed online.

• Nezavisimaya Gazeta (September 13):
  Andrew Kuchins was quoted in an article titled "Valdai in Sochi," discussing the Valdai International Discussion Club.

  • Link: The article is available in Russian.

• Bloomberg (August 16):
  Andrew Kuchins was quoted in an article titled "Ahmadinejad Denounces U.S. Missile Shield as Threat," commenting on the political and strategic implications of Iran's stance on U.S. missile defense.

  • Link: The article is accessible online.

• BBC Radio (August 17):
  Sarah E. Mendelson discussed Russian politics on BBC Radio, providing insights into current developments and challenges.

  • Link: The interview is available for listening.

Key Themes

• Russian Politics and Leadership:
  The focus on potential successors to Putin and the implications of a post-Putin era was a recurring theme, with experts and media analysts offering diverse perspectives.

• Security and Human Rights in the North Caucasus:
  The release of the 49 Steps report highlighted the ongoing concerns about human rights and security in the region, with calls for improved policies and international cooperation.

• International Engagement:
  The program's participation in the Valdai International Discussion Club and its media presence underscored the importance of dialogue and analysis in understanding Russia's role in global affairs.