Biden and Putin on a tightrope, Europe on the sidelines. EPC Commentary June 2021.

Paul, Amanda and di Carlo, Ivano (2021) Biden and Putin on a tightrope, Europe on the sidelines. EPC Commentary June 2021. [Policy Paper]

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Abstract

By meeting Putin, Biden chose pragmatic engagement over isolation to prevent a further escalation of US–Russia ties. But only time will tell if the Geneva summit succeeded in planting the seeds for real progress. The EU should take full advantage of this moment by strengthening its transatlantic cooperation regarding Russia – although the last fractious European Council meeting shows that there is still a long way to go. As expected, the meeting between the US and Russian presidents on 16 June delivered no major breakthroughs. Still, the leaders identified a handful of key areas where there may be some potential for progress, including the reopening of negotiations in areas of mutual interest and global concern, such as arms control. Biden’s goal is to effectively manage the Kremlin’s disruptive behaviour so that Washington can concentrate on what it views as its top threat – China. Yet the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Putin thrives on unpredictability, and it remains to be seen whether he will genuinely engage in the process or whether relations will quickly return to animosity.

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