Russia and Eastern Europe: will the West let them fail? (America and the World 1992/93)

In 1992, economic conditions declined dramatically in Russia, leading to a rise of conservative political forces and increased expressions of anti-Americanism. In the new year, Russia faces major challenges: 1. preventing hyperinflation, 2. continuing privatization, and 3. obtaining a better price for oil exports. It must also deal with mounting social problems: 1. runaway crime, 2. faltering health services, and 3. large-scale unemployment. Dangerous ethnic and religious conflicts continue. Meanwhile, in Eastern Europe, there are positive economic and political trends among all the problems in Poland, Hungary, and the Czech republic. The region remains a priority for renewed and effective US attention. The Clinton administration should work closely with Europe and Japan to address Russia's problems. President Clinton should not, however, wait to take bold steps until a consensus is reached. Clinton must focus on 2 particular areas: developing a strategy for Russia and Eastern Europe and reorienting US assistance to the region.