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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Ian Proud

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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.

Intro

6min

Unpacking Historical Animosities: UK-Russia Relations Explored

6min

Navigating British Foreign Policy in a Multipolar World

24min

Navigating the Shifts in British-Chinese Relations

4min

Reflections on UK-Russia Diplomacy: Insights from a Former Diplomat

2min

Ian Proud was once Britain's man in Moscow.

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.

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