“Dismantling the West is a brilliant, timely, and sober analysis of the transformations experienced by Russia domestically under Vladimir Putin's rule and their consequences for Russia's foreign policy vis-a-vis its non-Russian neighbors, Europe, and the United States. Bugajski persuasively argues that Russia's pursuit of divide-and-conquer policies threatens to undermine Western institutions and requires a measured and sophisticated response involving both short-term tactical flexibility and longer-term strategic resolve. Bugajski shows how Russia can be made into a genuine partner of the West. The only question is whether Western leaders will have the foresight to think strategically and place their collective interests above their individual ones.”—Alexander J. Motyl, professor of political science at Rutgers University
“Janusz Bugajski has long been recognized as a deeply knowledgeable and clear-eyed observer of Russia. His latest book shows that the reputation is well deserved. Powerfully argued, thoroughly researched, and elegantly written, it arrives at exactly the right time given the debate now raging about whether Russia has reemerged as a great power. Bugajski argues that it has and that, furthermore, the Kremlin has developed a well-conceived and systematic strategy for dominating its immediate neighbors, isolating the United States, and weakening the ties uniting America and its European allies. In making his case, he provides a deft analysis of the complex interplay between internal politics and foreign policy in Putin's Russia. Even those who disagree with his analysis will be forced to reckon with his sobering and comprehensive assessment.”—Rajan Menon, Monroe J. Rathbone Professor of International Relations, Lehigh University, and Fellow, New America Foundation
“Most people thought that the idea of geopolitical competition with Russia went out the window with the end of the Cold War. Janusz Bugajski’s book is a sober reminder that it did not. Not only does a new, more assertive and nationalistic Russia seek to reclaim its sphere of influence or 'special interests' on its borders, but Bugajsksi warns us that Moscow’s agenda today is to again divide the Atlanticist West and expand the 'Eurasianist' zone deep into Europe proper. One need not agree with every word of his analysis to conclude that Russia is back as a problem and a competitor. Whether the current financial crisis will tame or further radicalize Russian foreign policy remains to be seen. In the meantime, this book is essential reading for those concerned about the future of Russia, Europe, and the free world.”—Ronald D. Asmus, executive director, Transatlantic Center, German Marshall Fund, Brussels, and former U.S. deputy assistant secretary of state for European affairs, 1997-2000
