From containment to deterrence:
Russia's plan to avoid war with the West

Peace & stability between states are never based on benign intentions & solemn promises. Rather on restraining each other's potentially aggressive aspirations. Simply put, if states are not in the same alliance, then peace b/n them rests on the fear of war.

The war in Ukraine exposed shortcomings of the Russian strategic deterrence. The confrontation with the West - likely to last for a long while - asks for strengthening deterrence, especially its nuclear component as a means of intimidating the US & its satellites allies.

This logic drove the trio of strategic thinkers - Dmitry Trenin, Sergey Karaganov & Sergey Avakyants to write their new book which is just out.

They argue Russia needs to restore the geopolitical containment along its borders, as well as to create flexible coalitions with other interested entities to protect and promote its interests.