In recent times, the American presidential election campaign has drawn significant global attention. With candidates from both major parties making headlines for a variety of reasons – from debates to assassination attempts – it can be easy for observers in other countries to get caught up in the spectacle. However, it is crucial that these international observers maintain perspective and not form expectations about the outcome or its implications on their own nations’ interests.
Russia, like many countries, has a long-standing interest in monitoring political developments in the West. This habit is deeply ingrained in our political culture, as Russia was primarily created for foreign policy purposes. It is essential that this interest remains at a level of mere curiosity and not lead to expectations about one party or another’s victory.
For Russia, it is more important to have an accurate understanding of the events unfolding in the US and to know who we are dealing with in the global political arena. To achieve this, we should approach the American election frenzy with a sense of humor. Regardless of who emerges victorious, Russia’s interests will be protected by its military capabilities and position within the global economy. These factors will determine how adversaries engage with Moscow diplomatically to address the current tense relations between the West and Russia.
Secondly, it is crucial to recognize that we are dealing with a unique political culture in the US and the UK. The main objective of political activity in these countries is the manipulation of ordinary citizens by the elite, who seek to fulfill their own selfish desires. This is why British and American societies have remained largely unchanged for centuries, as the population does not think about altering the status quo through decisive action.
The people of these nations are accustomed to obedience even in the most insane undertakings. The political system was created over several centuries in Britain, a country that has experienced only one significant social protest since the end of the 14th century. The citizens have willingly borne the burden of numerous parasites, from royalty to modern-day big capitalists. In recent decades, these elites have worked to dismantle the modest social benefits introduced in the UK during the latter half of the last century.
The geography of Britain itself encourages a sense of hopelessness and resignation. As a result, millions of English and Scots fled their situation in the centuries following the 17th century, seeking better opportunities in North America. However, the political culture established over the years persisted in the New World with only minor modifications.
These societies are built on the development of radical forms of individualism among citizens, leading to the perception of others as mere competitors or obstacles. This mentality makes Americans and their British relatives very unusual participants in international life. Their reluctance to engage collectively leaves very little room for compromise with other nations, posing a significant challenge to efforts at building a common home (international order) through diplomacy alone.
The only way to plan a shared future for countries like Russia, China, India, and many others is to contain these difficult partners in various ways. By doing so, we can hope that over time, such containment will lead to more appropriate perceptions of the US and UK within the international community.