To the question of the origins of difficult relations between Russia and Western countries

Demidova Tatiana Evgenievna, Demidov Andrey Vladimirovich

the article analyzes the origins of difficult relations between Russia and Western countries. Some historical examples show the evolution of such relations in different spheres (religious, political). Western partners demand that Russia regularly supplies the raw materials they need and, if possible, does not interfere in international Affairs. Considering the civilizational aspect of relations between Russia and the West, the authors come to the conclusion that Russia is a separate, in many ways, original civilization with a rich history, which has reached a high cultural level. Russia is too strong to take the humble place of one of the ordinary members of the "European family". It should build its own path, respecting the interests of other countries, but, above all, not forgetting its own.

Keywords:European values, civilization, acceptance of Christianity, Catholicism, Orthodoxy, Tatar-Mongol invasion, Eurasian people, Third Rome, historical purpose, raw materials.