In 2008, before the conflict with Georgia began, no one was able to predict the readiness or effectiveness of the Russian Army. A few years later during the military campaign in Syria, the Russian Armed Forces confirmed their standing as one of the best armies of the world, demonstrating a high level of technical potential and combat training. Between 2008 and 2012 Russia’s military education became one of the best and most prestigious forms of education in Russia. The main purpose of this article is to show the changes that have occurred in the Russian military education since the beginning of military reform (in 2008) to 2012. The main research problem is to answer the question: how have the changes in military education and in the training system strengthened Russia’s military potential?

The article presents the Baltic-Black Sea region in the military-political dimension, as well as explores the potential benefits of this cooperation for European security. The study offers some important insights into the historical preconditions for the formation of the Union according to the Baltic-Black Sea Arc. This paper attempts to show the importance of international political and security potential of Ukraine and its influence on the formation of the Baltic-Black Sea Union. The Baltic-Black Sea Union is seen as an effective counterweight to Russia’s expansion into the West, whereby Ukraine could serve as a guarantor of European stability. The article analyzes opinions of international experts on the implementation of the Baltic-Black Sea Union, as well as compares the military power of potential members of the union with the military forces of advanced countries. This study provides an important opportunity to advance the understanding of the benefits for Union members and European countries and how the United States can help implement the idea of project. The analysis emphasizes the functions of the Baltic-Black Sea Union, potential NATO assistance and how the Union will ensure the stability of its forces in Europe. It is summarized why the countries of the Baltic-Black Sea arc can act as a guarantor of protection against Russian aggression.