RUSSIA AND EAST CENTRAL EUROPE: A FRESH START?

The article explores the transformation of relations between Russia and East Central European (ECE) countries since the end of the Cold War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Topics discussed include the impact of accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union (EU) on ECE-Russia relations and the transition of ECE countries to political pluralism. Also assessed are the prospects of improving economic and trade relations between ECE countries and Russia.