The evolution of the military-strategic importance of the Kaliningrad region in the context of relations between Russia and NATO
- Pages
- 31-43
Abstract
The Kaliningrad region, as an exclave of the Russian Federation, which does not have common borders with the main part of the country, is significantly dependent in its development on the external situation, including the military-political environment. The latter determines the ratio of the military and civilian components of regional development, as well as the military-strategic significance of the region for Russia, the number and composition of the Russian military forces in the region. In doing so, NATO’s policies and activities, as well as the nature of the relationship between NATO and Russia, play a crucial role. The purpose of the study is to identify how relations with Russia and NATO and the expansion of this military bloc have influenced and continue to influence the military-strategic significance of the Kaliningrad region and its defense capability. For this, a periodization of changes in the military-strategic significance of the Kaliningrad region was carried out in the context of relations between Russia and NATO. The author concludes that in the current geopolitical situation, Russia will be forced to strengthen the deterrent role of the Kaliningrad region against a potential aggressor.