In Germany’s Russia Problem: The Struggle for Balance in Europe, John Lough delves deep into one of the most intricate and often misunderstood aspects of European geopolitics – the relationship between Germany and Russia.

Lough examines how Germany’s unique position in Europe places it at the heart of an ongoing struggle to balance economic, political, and security interests between Russia and the rest of Europe. From energy dependencies to historical ties, this book sheds light on Germany’s attempts to maintain a stable relationship with Russia while navigating pressure from its Western allies and the European Union.

John Lough is a geopolitical expert with a background in Russia and Eastern Europe whose 35-year career has spanned the worlds of business, diplomacy, and research. He is an Associate Fellow of the Russia & Eurasia Programme at Chatham House (since 2009) and is a regular commentator on Russian and Ukrainian affairs.

He ran his own consultancy business for five years, advising clients on political and investment risk in Russia, Ukraine, and other countries of the former Soviet Union. From 2008 to 2016, he ran the Russia/CIS practice of BGR Gabara, a public affairs consultancy. From 2003 to 2008, he was an international affairs adviser at TNK-BP, Russia’s third-largest oil company at the time.