Putin's 'Eastern Pivot': Divergent Ambitions between Russia and China? Evidence from the Arctic

Thomas E. Rotnem, Kennesaw State UniversityFollow
Kristina Minkova, St. Petersburg State UniversityFollow

Publication Date

January 2018

Abstract

Focusing upon the warming Sino-Russian relationship in general, this paper also examines in particular both countries interests in the Arctic region. The paper begins with a brief overview of the developing Sino-Russian relationship since the late 1980s. After discussing the blossoming of friendlier ties during the Putin-Xi era, it reviews some of the arguments and assumptions that scholars have held predicting either an ever closer relationship or an eventual rupture in those relations. The paper then analyzes both countries’ interests in the Arctic realm, using this case study as evidence supporting the view that the Sino-Russian relationship–despite its many difficulties–has been effectively managed in this arena for mutual benefit. As well, although it was not intended to be so, the sanctions regime imposed by America and her European allies has been a key driver in the closer Arctic relationship, in specific, and Sino-Russian relations, in general.

Author Bio(s)

Thomas E. Rotnem is both a Professor and Assistant Chair in the Department of Political Science and International Affairs at Kennesaw State University. He teaches courses in comparative politics, international relations, political risk management, comparative political economy, and Russian foreign policy. His current research interests focus upon Sino-Russian relations, Russia’s Arctic policies, and territorial conflicts in the former Soviet space. Dr. Rotnem earned his Ph.D. in Political Science from Ohio State University, as well as a Graduate Certificate as Specialist in Russian Area Studies.

Kristina V. Minkova is currently a Senior Lecturer at the Department of American Studies, St. Petersburg State University. She has a Ph.D. in the History of International Relations and a Master’s degree in Regional Studies. The primary research interests include: international trade as a highly influential aspect of world politics, the Soviet-American relations in the early post-war years, and different aspects of Canadian Studies.