Western European Countries with Best Relations to Russia

Despite ongoing tensions between Western European countries and Russia, some nations have managed to maintain relatively good relations. This article explores these relationships from a political and economic perspective, discussing the factors that contribute to these ties.

1. Norway and Finland: Traditional Diplomatic Alliances

Traditionally, Finland and Norway have had cordial relations with Russia, marked by mutual respect and cooperation. Norway, in particular, has dealt with Russia in a peaceful and civilized manner, resolving all territorial disputes through diplomatic channels. Cooperation in areas such as fisheries and search and rescue services in the northern waters demonstrates the stability and strength of this alliance.

However, the current situation has been significantly affected by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Norway, like many other European nations, has chosen to support Ukraine by supplying it with heavy artillery, anti-tank weapons, anti-aircraft missiles, and winter equipment. Nonetheless, the lower-level diplomatic interactions continue, indicating a frozen but not completely severed relationship.

2. Belarus: A Unique Reality

Belarus, under the leadership of Alexander Lukashenko, stands apart as the most compliant with Russian demands. This compliance is due to a combination of economic and political incentives, as well as the fear of potential retaliation from Russia. Despite some dissatisfaction from Western powers, the Belarusian leadership remains loyal to Russian interests.

Unlike other nations, the Belarusian people do not share the same level of compliance as their leadership. This divide underscores the complexity of political influence within Belarus and highlights the extensive control that Lukashenko maintains over the country’s affairs.

3. Limited Western European Allies

Among Western European nations, there are only a few that maintain cooperative relationships with Russia. Armenia, Hungary, and Serbia are notable examples, though they are not part of Western Europe. These countries have their reasons for not aligning strongly against Russia.

Sweden and Finland, often cited as examples of strong ties with Russia, are actually driven by fear and intimidation from Russia, especially after the 1917 revolution. Similarly, Germany and France have maintained close ties for economic reasons, particularly during leadership under Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Emmanuel Macron. Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has focused on economic and political ties with Russia for personal gain, ensuring his grip on power through the undermining of democratic principles.

4. NATO and Economic Benefits

While proximity to Russia is an important factor, what truly sets these countries apart is their alignment with NATO and their reliance on Russia’s natural resources. NATO membership provides these nations with a defensive shield against any potential aggressive military moves by Russia. At the same time, Russia offers significant economic benefits, particularly in terms of natural gas, oil, and strategic minerals, which contribute to their economic development and stability.

It is essential to understand that while these relationships exist, they do not translate into political or economic influence. Russia uses these economic ties as leverage to influence decision-making processes, especially in Hungary where Orbán prioritizes maintaining power over countering EU and NATO principles.

Conclusion

The relationships between Western European countries and Russia are complex and multifaceted. While Norway and Finland maintain traditional diplomatic ties, Belarus is the most compliant, and a few Western nations like Armenia, Hungary, and Serbia retain some level of cooperation, the primary motivations often lie in fear, economic necessity, and the need for defensive security provided by NATO.

Keywords

Western Europe, Russia, EU relations, NATO, sanctions