战略与国际研究中心-PONARS-Policy-Memo-279_4页_179kb

Summary of "Partners In Need: U.S.-Russian Cooperation on and Approaches to Anti-terrorism"

Core Content

This policy memo, published by PONARS in October 2002, analyzes the evolving U.S.-Russia relationship in the context of the global anti-terrorism campaign following the September 11 attacks. It highlights the significance of bilateral cooperation and the nuanced yet convergent approaches both countries have taken in combating terrorism.

Main Views

• U.S. Leadership in Anti-terrorism Post-9/11
  The September 11 attacks marked a turning point in U.S. national security policy, elevating anti-terrorism and homeland defense to the forefront. The U.S. demonstrated that even its military superiority could not prevent attacks, leading to a reorientation of its foreign policy toward unilateral action and global dominance.

• Russia's Strategic Interest in Cooperation
  Russia saw the global anti-terrorism campaign as an opportunity to re-engage with the West, counter its perceived international isolation, and re-establish itself as a reliable partner. This cooperation was not merely residual from the Cold War but was driven by a shared interest in combating a new type of security threat.

• Bilateral Cooperation in Afghanistan
  Russia played a crucial role in supporting the U.S. military operation in Afghanistan, particularly in resupplying the Northern Alliance and sharing intelligence. This cooperation was conducted through the U.S.-Russia Working Group on Afghanistan, which was later expanded to focus on broader terrorism issues.

• Similarities in Practical Counter-Terrorism Tactics
  Despite theoretical differences, both the U.S. and Russia emphasize the use of military force and conventional means to combat terrorism. They share a focus on post-action retaliation and investigation rather than preemptive measures or addressing the root causes of terrorism.

Key Information

• Bilateral Cooperation Mechanisms

  • U.S.-Russia Working Group on Afghanistan (established in 2000) was instrumental in facilitating anti-terrorism collaboration.
  • The working group was expanded in May 2002 and renamed the U.S.-Russia Working Group on Combating Terrorism.
  • The Joint Statement on Combating Bioterrorism (November 2001) and the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (January 31, 2002) were significant bilateral agreements.

• Divergent Theoretical Perspectives

  • The U.S. views terrorism as a "super crime" and a form of war, advocating for military responses.
  • Russia emphasizes terrorism as a complex social and political phenomenon, rooted in broader contradictions and requiring a more comprehensive approach.
  • Russia rejects the U.S. "axis of evil" concept, instead focusing on "arcs of instability" in regions like the Middle East, the Balkans, and Central Asia.

• Russia's Regional Security Concerns

  • Russia is particularly concerned about the southern flank of the former Soviet Union, especially Afghanistan, as a source of terrorism and regional instability.
  • It has sought to strengthen ties with Central Asian states and promote stability in the region through its involvement in the anti-terrorism campaign.

• Strategic Implications for Russia

  • Russia's participation in the U.S.-led coalition helped it reclaim a prominent role in international politics.
  • It allowed Russia to enhance its image as a responsible and cooperative actor in the global fight against terrorism.
  • This cooperation also supported Russia's broader integration into the international community and its economic and political interests.

Conclusion

While the U.S. and Russia have different theoretical understandings of terrorism, their practical approaches and cooperation, especially in Afghanistan, have shown remarkable alignment. This partnership has not only been beneficial for both countries in addressing immediate security threats but has also helped Russia reposition itself in the international arena and reinforce its strategic importance to the U.S. and the global community.