The Image of Russia in the Politics of the Western Balkan States

The article deals with the formation of dividing lines between the political elites of the Western Balkan countries, namely Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro and the so-called “Republic of Kosovo” in the backdrop of Ukrainian crisis. The research is based on the analysis of the political discourse and developments of current conflict in Ukraine. Particular attention, where possible, was paid to the aggravation of controversy in connection with electoral cycles. The authors explore the programs of the leading political parties and public speeches of the main politicians of the indicated countries. It is highlighted the competitive struggle of political elites, taking into account the Russian factor, which serves as an instrument for attraction of the electorate both within the country and internationally among leading Euro-Atlantic actors (on whose approval the political elites of the region depend). The main data are presented in the table reflect the current dynamics of changes in the foreign policy and the opposition of the countries in relation to Russia, including real foreign policy steps.