Glenn Diesen - Greater Eurasia Podcast Pascal Lottaz: US-Russia Relations Decoupling From Europe?
Aug 16, 2025
Pascal Lottaz, an associate professor at Kyoto University and host of the Neutrality Studies podcast, dives into the shifting dynamics of US-Russia relations. He discusses how both nations are moving away from Europe, seeking to build new partnerships amidst geopolitical chaos. The conversation highlights historical mistrust, the impact of the Ukraine conflict, and the evolving roles of diplomacy and security. Lottaz emphasizes the need for a collaborative, multipolar approach to stabilize relations and ensure mutual security.
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Summit Marked A Process-Oriented Shift
- The Alaska summit signaled a shift toward pragmatic US–Russia engagement despite media framing.
- Russia treats diplomacy as a process focused on root causes and a new security architecture.
Bilateral Framing Over Europe
- Putin framed the meeting as neighborly and bilateral, downplaying Europe as the main arena.
- Both powers prefer fixing bilateral ties first and letting European dynamics follow downstream.
Diplomacy Runs Alongside Military Pressure
- Russia pursues simultaneous military and diplomatic tracks rather than a single ceasefire.
- Moscow sees a window to restructure security while continuing battlefield pressure.