Eastern Europe in the Face of Russia’s Geopolitical Revisionism

Abstract

This article examines the political and geostrategic situation of selected Eastern European countries in the context of Russia’s growing neo‑imperial ambitions and the ongoing armed conflict in Ukraine. It focuses on key developments in 2021, including attempts to revive the Russia–Ukraine dialogue via the Normandy Format and the deepening dependence of Belarus on the Russian Federation. The author explores how Moscow’s actions—ranging from energy pressure to historical revisionism—serve to destabilize the region and undermine the Western‑oriented aspirations of post‑Soviet states. Particular attention is given to the role of the European Union and its Eastern policy, which faces serious challenges amid war, shifting regional security dynamics, and internal EU fragmentation. The central research question concerns whether the EU can maintain an assertive and coherent strategy toward Eastern Europe or whether we are heading toward another “reset” in relations with Russia. The article concludes by stressing the need for a profound rethinking of the EU’s approach toward its eastern neighbourhood and the importance of enhancing regional resilience against Russian influence.