Commentary
Dmitri Trenin
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Source: Getty
In The Media
How the EU Is Viewed in Russia
Most Russians view Europe in a very positive light. When they look at Europe, they still see primarily the nation states.
Published on Jul 9, 2010
Source: Opinion Corner
When you mention the words “European Union” to people, do they react positively or negatively?
If you say Europe, the reaction is very positive. If you say the European Union, then people tend to think in terms of a bureaucracy. The EU is something that normal people do not readily understand.
Why are people positive towards the idea of Europe?
They are positive because it’s... It’s the people who are closest to them, beyond the former Soviet Union, so this is a part of the world which they’re familiar with and one which they think they understand better than any other part of the world. It’s culturally close, but it’s also non-aggressive. It’s not like the United States, it’s not throwing its weight around. People are also very appreciative of the kind of prosperity and affluence that Europe has built. People are appreciative that these countries are peaceful and even pacific.
Do you think the Russian elites take the EU seriously?
They take the EU seriously on issues such as trade and economic issues. They don’t take the EU seriously as a strategic player in great power games.
About the Author
Dmitri Trenin
Former Director, Carnegie Moscow Center
Trenin was director of the Carnegie Moscow Center from 2008 to early 2022.
- Mapping Russia’s New Approach to the Post-Soviet Space
- What a Week of Talks Between Russia and the West RevealedCommentary
Dmitri Trenin
Recent Work
Carnegie India does not take institutional positions on public policy issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Carnegie, its staff, or its trustees.