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Multipolarity

Special Edition: Dissident Former Diplomat Ian Proud on UK-Russia Relations

Dec 19, 2024
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.
42:40

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Quick takeaways

  • 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.

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