The EU and Russia

The EU and Russia: Strategic partners or squabbling neighbours?

External Author(s)
Katinka Barysch

Written by Katinka Barysch, 03 May 2004

The EU and Russia share a multitude of interests and objectives. The EU is Russia's biggest export market, while Russia is a crucial supplier of energy to the Union. However, as Katinka Barysch explains, the two sides often squabble. The EU asks Russia to become more liberal, open and democratic, but Russians find the EU policy arrogant and intrusive.