Because of the two enlargements, the partnership between the European Union and Russia is currently nearing a turning point. This partnership is coming up against a deep misunderstanding due to tensions between values and interests. In order to propose an overall vision, this tension will be seen from three different points of view: the free movement of people related to the visa issue, the contents of economic exchanges linked to the energy supplies and, at last, the useful means for stabilization in the security field. From this perspective, the great difference of nature and aims between the two sides will be stressed. Possible frictions could be stemmed from it.

Thomas Gomart is a Research Associate at Ifri.