1.
How are Russia and the United States relations referred as?
Correct Answer
C. Bilateral relationship
Explanation
Russia and the United States have a bilateral relationship, which means that they have a relationship that involves two parties or countries. In this case, it refers to the relationship between Russia and the United States, where they engage in diplomatic, economic, and political interactions. This term is commonly used to describe the interactions and agreements between these two nations.
2.
When did official contacts between the Russian empire and the US begin?
Correct Answer
D. In 1776
Explanation
Official contacts between the Russian empire and the US began in 1776. This was the year when the United States declared its independence from Britain, and it marked the beginning of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The US sought support from various nations during its fight for independence, and Russia was one of the first countries to recognize and establish official contacts with the newly formed nation. This early relationship laid the foundation for future diplomatic and trade relations between the two countries.
3.
What was President Clinton's priority concerning Russia when he came into power in 1993?
Correct Answer
C. Stabilizing Russia and expanding NATO into former Eastern bloc
Explanation
President Clinton's priority concerning Russia when he came into power in 1993 was to stabilize Russia and expand NATO into the former Eastern bloc. This indicates that he aimed to support the political and economic stability of Russia while also strengthening the influence and presence of NATO in the region. This approach suggests that President Clinton recognized the importance of maintaining stability in Russia and promoting a stronger Western alliance in the post-Cold War era.
4.
When did the USA and Russia start having serious disagreements?
Correct Answer
C. In 1999 during the first Putin presidencies
Explanation
In 1999, during the first presidency of Vladimir Putin, the United States and Russia started having serious disagreements. This was a significant turning point in their relationship, as Putin's leadership marked a shift towards a more assertive and confrontational stance by Russia. The disagreements between the two countries during this time were related to various issues, including NATO expansion, missile defense systems, and the war in Chechnya. This period marked a deterioration in the bilateral relationship and set the stage for further tensions in the following years.
5.
Who did Russia blame for the orange revolution in Ukraine?
Correct Answer
A. The USA
Explanation
Russia blamed the USA for the orange revolution in Ukraine. This is because the orange revolution was a series of protests and political events that took place in Ukraine in 2004, which resulted in the victory of pro-Western candidate Viktor Yushchenko. Russia viewed this as interference by the USA in Ukraine's internal affairs and saw it as a threat to its influence in the region. Therefore, Russia blamed the USA for orchestrating the orange revolution.
6.
Under which American president did Russia and the US try to have a "fresh start"?
Correct Answer
C. Barack Obama
Explanation
During Barack Obama's presidency, Russia and the US attempted to have a "fresh start." This refers to the reset policy that Obama pursued with Russia, aiming to improve relations between the two countries. The reset policy included efforts to negotiate arms control agreements, cooperate on counterterrorism, and promote economic ties. However, this reset did not fully achieve its intended goals, as tensions between the two countries continued to persist, particularly regarding conflicts in Ukraine and Syria.
7.
What deal did Russia and the US make in 2013?
Correct Answer
A. That Syria's chemical weapons would be placed under international control
Explanation
In 2013, Russia and the US made a deal that involved placing Syria's chemical weapons under international control. This agreement aimed to prevent the use of chemical weapons in the Syrian conflict and ensure their safe disposal. By placing these weapons under international control, it was hoped that their use would be deterred and that the risk of proliferation or their falling into the wrong hands would be minimized. This deal was an important step towards addressing the humanitarian and security concerns associated with Syria's chemical weapons stockpile.
8.
When did Russia decide to annex Crimea?
Correct Answer
C. In February 2014
Explanation
In February 2014, Russia decided to annex Crimea. This decision was made following political unrest and a change in government in Ukraine. Russia claimed that it needed to protect the interests of Russian-speaking residents in Crimea and ensure stability in the region. The annexation was widely condemned by the international community, leading to sanctions against Russia.
9.
Which February 2018 incident threatened to deepen tensions with the US and Russia?
Correct Answer
A. The US air and artillery strike and pro government formation in Eastern Syria
Explanation
The correct answer is the US air and artillery strike and pro government formation in Eastern Syria. This incident threatened to deepen tensions with the US and Russia because it involved the US military conducting airstrikes in Syria, which is a country where Russia has a significant military presence and supports the Syrian government. This action by the US could have escalated the conflict and further strained relations between the two countries.
10.
When did Russia's systemic espionage efforts in the US begin?
Correct Answer
A. In the 1920s
Explanation
In the 1920s, Russia's systemic espionage efforts in the US began. This suggests that Russia started engaging in organized and extensive spying activities in the United States during this time period. It implies that the Russian government was actively involved in gathering intelligence and conducting covert operations in the US, potentially for political, military, or economic purposes.