Against the backdrop of the sharp escalation in strategic and military confrontation in Europe triggered by Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, this course aims to provide a detailed understanding of the nature and challenges of Russia’s security and defense policy, taking into account its evolution since the end of the Cold War.

Grounded in current events, the course begins with an analysis of the worldview, strategic culture, and threat perceptions that underpin Russia’s defense policy. It then examines the terms of this policy and the key concepts that guide it, with particular attention to the distinctive role of nuclear deterrence. The course also provides an overview of the instruments of Russian security and defense policy, including its decision-making architecture, military and nuclear capabilities, defense industry, and defense diplomacy.

Isabelle Facon (Deputy Director FRS)

3 ECTS, 6 sessions of 2h

Thursday 14h-16h in room U209 at 29 rue d’Ulm