Russia and US are Similar? Well..........Maybe?

Violent protests in 2020 have caused the U.S. government to call on the National Guard to keep peace. This has caused many Americans to question the status of civil-military relations. In addition to protest and riots, the 2020 presidential election has caused some uproar as President Trump and Biden constantly accuse one another of being against the military. But have many Americans analyzed why have certain opinions regarding military affairs? The Kennan Instatute’s Kirill Shamiev believes civil-military relations in the U.S. is similar, yet different, to civil-military relations in Russia. 

Both Russia and the U.S. respect and trust their militaries. For example, American generals can influence foreign policy. Retired generals commonly express their political opinions in the media. Politicians running for re-elections will often listen to military leaders regarding civilian issues. American military leaders can also influence how domestic policy is perceived. Secretary Esper compared protest scenes to battle grounds, which came with backlash. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley went to Washington’s Lafayette Square with President Trump. This was where tear gas and rubber bullets were used. Milley later said he should not have been there and issued an apology for creating the perception of the U.S. military being involved in domestic affairs.  

Russia’s National Guard, police, Federal Security Service, and Federal Penal Correction Service is heavily militarized. However, these groups see protesters and detainees as enemies influenced by outside forces. Therefore, elite representatives look to protect their own interests and goals instead of protecting human rights. As a result, many Russians have lower confidence in these institutions to combat crime and terrorism because their actions do not seem legitimate. 

Both Russia and the U.S. militaries spent a ton of money on their armed forces and law enforcement. Their law enforcement and military influences domestic and foreign policy. Lastly, many Americans and Russians are disappointed in their politicians who make military policy. Small revisions can help the U.S., Russia, and the entire world.