"The divergent trajectories of the EU and Russia in the early 2000s set the two entities on the path of confrontation. In this detailed empirical study, Anna-Sophie Maass convincingly demonstrates that a series of external shocks helped reshape their relationship at the same time as the internal evolution of the two brought about a new understanding of their respective actorness in a system in which no fundamental mode of reconciliation had been devised. This important work represents essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of the relationship between the EU and Russia."

Richard Sakwa, University of Kent, UK.

"The question why the EU's and Russia's relations ended up on a conflictual path is one of the most pressing ones for our generation.

This book provides a multi-layered analysis of the road from initial promise to the current bitter mutual disappointment and recrimination.

It is a sobering account that should be required reading for everyone interested in the future of EU-Russia relations."

Hiski Haukkala, University of Tampere, Finland.

"This is an important book that speaks to a wide audience across disciplinary boundaries. Expertly following the contours of the EU's troubled relationship with Russia over the past two decades, Maass' analysis is rigorous and based on a wealth of primary material. Its value goes well beyond a simple retrospective of recent conflicts and diplomatic impasses; this is a study that contextualizes the current 'ice age' in the EU's relations with Russia and offers significant insights into the dynamics that have contributed to its emergence."

Dimitris Papadimitriou, University of Manchester, UK.