Helsinki Commission Announces Hearing on Russia

WASHINGTON - The Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (Helsinki Commission), Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) and Co-Chairman Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD) announced today that the Commission will hold a hearing entitled:

"Russia: In Transition or Intransigent?"

Thursday, May 24, 2007

10:00 am to 12:00 noon

Room B318, Rayburn House Office Building

The hearing will focus on the reemergence of Russia as a major political and economic power in the world, examine current trends in Russia today, and consider the implications for United States' policy. The reemergence of Russia as a major political and economic power in the world has been accompanied by a cooling of relations with the United States over a number of issues, such as foreign policy, human rights, and the war in Iraq. Russia remains interested in cooperation with the U.S. in the war on international terrorism and other issues, but the recent chill in relations has curtailed expectations on both sides.

Testifying before the Commission will be:

The Hon. Daniel Fried, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, U.S.Department of State

Sarah Mendelson, Senior fellow, Russia and Eurasia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies

E. Wayne Merry, Senior Associate, American Foreign Policy Council

Lilia Shevtsova, Senior Associate, Carnegie Moscow Center.

Jeffrey W. Hahn, Professor of Political Science and Director of the Russian Area Studies Concentration Villanova University

Other witnesses may be invited.