Special Edition: Dissident Former Diplomat Ian Proud on UK-Russia Relations
Dec 19, 2024
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Ian Proud, a former British diplomat with 24 years of experience, shares his insights on the complex UK-Russia relations during his tenure in Moscow from 2014 to 2019. He discusses the dramatic shift from collaboration to sanctions following key events like the Salisbury nerve agent attack. Proud delves into the historical animosities between the nations and critiques the current British foreign policy landscape, calling for a more coherent approach amidst changing global dynamics. His reflections offer a unique perspective on navigating the intricacies of diplomacy.
The deterioration of UK-Russia relations since 2014 has led to a punitive foreign policy that lacks constructive engagement options.
Historical animosities and a lack of direct Russian experience contribute to a systemic Russophobia influencing British foreign policy debates.
Deep dives
The Deterioration of Anglo-Russian Relations
Between 2014 and 2019, Anglo-Russian relations deteriorated significantly, marked by increased sanctions imposed against Russia. The speaker's role shifted from promoting economic collaboration to advising on the effects of sanctions as a response to the Ukraine crisis. This period saw the UK excluded from important diplomatic dialogues, such as the Normandy format, which limited its influence in resolving conflicts related to Ukraine. The strategy shifted towards a punitive approach, positioning the UK as a leader in sanctioning Russia without viable alternatives for constructive engagement.
Historical Roots of Russophobia
The hostility between Britain and Russia is deeply rooted in historical events, particularly from the 18th and 19th centuries, including the Great Game and the Crimean War. Despite these significant historical tensions, there is a contrast in the perception of Russia between Britain and the US, where a more nuanced debate regarding Russia exists. In Britain, a lack of direct experience with Russia and a media landscape dominated by government narratives perpetuate Russophobia. The speaker points out that this systemic animosity is largely uninformed, as many Britons have not had exposure to Russian culture or people.
Challenges of British Foreign Policy
British foreign policy in the last few decades has been characterized by a lack of critical debate and a drift towards interventionist liberal internationalism. The speaker notes an absence of realists in Parliament and insufficient intellectual discourse within the Foreign Office, leading to ineffective policy-making processes. This deficiency has resulted in repetitive strategies that fail to address modern geopolitical realities, especially as the UK becomes increasingly reliant on US foreign policy. The speaker stresses the need for a shift towards more strategic partnerships and engagement with countries outside the Western influence, particularly as global dynamics change.
Navigating a Multipolar World
As the geopolitical landscape shifts towards multipolarity, the speaker emphasizes the necessity for the UK to develop genuine partnerships based on respect and understanding. The existing exclusionary practices of Western foreign policy, particularly regarding nations like Georgia and Moldova, could lead to greater instability and conflict. The speaker expresses concern that the West's approach may drive these countries into closer alignment with Russia, exacerbating tensions. To successfully navigate multipolarity, the UK must rethink its foreign policy, acknowledging diverse governance systems globally while building relationships on equal footing.
A career diplomat of 24 years, he got to look in directly upon the withering relationship between the United Kingdom and Russia, in the crucial period from 2014 until 2019.
In fact, he rebuilt embassy staffing structures following the mass expulsion after the March 2018 Salisbury nerve agent attack.
Since then, Proud has been outspokenly critical on questions of UK-Russia relations.
This week, Philip and Andrew are trying to get into the British diplomat mindset as relations approach a crucial juncture.