With U.S.-Russian relations at their most strained since the Cold War, reducing the risk of direct military confrontation and stabilizing global security, the U.S. must balance firm deterrence with strategic diplomacy to turn a bitter rivalry into competitive coexistence.

While the situation remains unstable, Moscow is unlikely to abandon its strategic foothold in the Middle East, as doing so would undermine its regional influence and Putin’s domestic image.

What principles would guide Kamala Harris's foreign policy decision-making—particularly on Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia—and what issues would she prioritize, if elected president? On those and related questions she has offered little grist for reflection.

The election is meant to showcase Putin’s mastery of the political system, and therefore his legitimacy; by extension, it will serve as a referendum on the war in Ukraine itself.

While some believe the answer is an unequivocal yes, others argue there are no easy answers and call for caution. Check out our survey of some of America’s most prominent experts on post-Soviet Eurasia for more.

The main question now: How far will the escalation go?