Abstract

Recent stances adopted by Russia suggest some changes compared to the past. Harsh criticism made by Putin during the 43rd Munich Security Conference, reaction of Russian officials against deploying missile defense shield by the U.S. in Eastern Europe, suspension of Russia's membership in CFP, expulsion of British diplomats in retaliation for a similar action by Britain, competition with the U.S. for controlling the resources of North Pole, and development of Russian intercontinental air force all suggest the Russia's new policy towards international developments. Some regard these developments as a new Cold War and some other say that Russia tries to react to the U.S. attempts for changing strategic balance between the U.S. and Russia. This article studies recent developments in Russia to find out an answer for the question that whether Russia tries to play a more effective role in the international equations or that these developments result from Russia's domestic situation prior to holding presidential election in that country.