Fall 2025 - 65570 - PA 388K - Advanced Topics in Public Policy

Russia’s foreign policy has been shaped by centuries of imperial ambition, security concerns, and ideological shifts, influencing its interactions with both neighbors and global powers. This seminar course traces the historical evolution of Russia’s diplomatic, military, and economic strategies from Peter the Great to the present. Students will engage with a variety of historical and contemporary sources—diplomatic documents, policy statements, academic analyses, and media reports—to develop the analytical tools necessary for assessing Russia’s strategic decisions. By the end of the semester, students will be able to place current foreign policy issues within their broader historical context, critically evaluate Russia’s international strategies, and engage in informed discussions about Russia's role in the world today.