The geopolitical risks and prospects for Russia-Western relations in the Baltic region

The article presents a conceptual vision of existing and future geopolitical risks prospects for Russia-Western relations in the Baltic region. Emphasis is placed on with countries belonging to North Atlantic Alliance (NATO). Existing are considered within several important geostrategic tracks: Russia-NATO Russia-EU, as well bilateral key global regional actors. most complex turbulent those between Russia As analytical basis research, evolution strategic documents Russia, including strategy national security Russian Federation 2000–2020 was analyzed. Geopolitical scenarios West region, conflict potential so-called “gray zone” located buffer zone European countries, were shown. It concluded that there only two associated — destruction or consolidation West, NATO expansion, strengthening cooperation neutral up joining, an armed territory third one countries. For sensitive areas following: Kaliningrad “Suvalki Corridor” zone, Belarus, Eastern Estonia, Latgale. In our study, we emphasize background tensions have created conditions seeking new partners allies, diversifying proven reliable partners. One traditional partners, now see China, which has special interest entering markets expanding its influence Central Europe,