Russia in the Asia Pacific Region: the Interests and Policies of the U.S.

• Garusova L.N.

  Vladivostok State University of Economics and Service
  Vladivostok. Russia

Russia’s opportunities and prospects in the Asia-Pacific region in the 21st century will depend, to a great extent, on the relationships with the USA – the world and regional leader. For Russia, an overcoming of her peripheral position in the Pacific region means increased economic and political cooperation with countries in this region. Current US foreign policy is largely oriented towards the Asia-Pacific region. The aim of Washington’s Pacific policy is to maintain American world dominance in light of China's growing influence. In reality, the United States often does not perceive Russia as part of the Asia-Pacific region and doesn’t take Russia into consideration when elaborating its policy towards the Pacific. However, according to some American experts, the United States needs Russia’s support in order to constrain China. In turn, Russia appears to be primarily aimed at cooperating with China.

Keywords: Asia-Pacific region, U.S. foreign policy, Pacific policy, Obama administration, Russian-American relations.