Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies: A History of American-Russian Relations

by David S Foglesong, Ivan Kurilla, Victoria I Zhuravleva

This bold, sweeping history of the turbulent American-Russian relationship is unique in being written jointly by American and Russian authors. David Foglesong, Ivan Kurilla and Victoria Zhuravleva together reveal how and why America and Russia shifted from being warm friends and even tacit allies to being ideological rivals, geopolitical adversaries, and demonic foils used in the construction or affirmation of their national identities. As well as examining diplomatic, economic, and military interactions between the two countries, they illuminate how filmmakers, cartoonists, writers, missionaries and political activists have admired, disparaged, lionized, envied, satirized, loved, and hated people in the other land. The book shows how the stories they told and the images they created have shaped how the two countries have understood each other from the eighteenth century to the present and how often their violent clashes have arisen from mutual misunderstanding and misrepresentations.

640 pages, Hardcover

Published November 20, 2025

Reviews

[Rafael Berge · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an exceptional journey through the dramatic, often turbulent evolution of American-Russian relations. The author masterfully blends historical detail with engaging storytelling, making complex political events easy to follow without ever oversimplifying them. From early diplomatic encounters to Cold War standoffs and modern-day tensions, the narrative offers perspective, nuance, and surprising revelations. I found myself completely absorbed by the careful analysis and balanced approach. Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies is essential reading for students, history lovers, and anyone interested in understanding today’s geopolitical climate. A powerful, enlightening five-star read.

[Uriel Buckridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies is a brilliantly researched and beautifully written examination of one of the world’s most complex geopolitical relationships. The author weaves centuries of diplomacy, rivalry, cooperation, and tension into a narrative that is both accessible and deeply insightful. Each chapter illuminates a pivotal moment in U.S.–Russia history, revealing how cultural misunderstandings and strategic ambitions shaped the modern world. This isn’t just a history book—it’s a captivating story of two nations locked in a perpetual dance. A must-read for anyone seeking clarity on global affairs. Absolutely five stars.

[Ahmad Yundt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies provides a sweeping, compelling overview of the long and complicated ties between Russia and the United States. The author shows how ideology, leadership, and global ambition shaped every interaction between the two nations. The book is richly researched yet incredibly readable, making even intricate diplomatic maneuvers feel clear and engaging. I especially appreciated the attention to cultural perceptions and how misconceptions fueled conflict. This is the kind of historical analysis that informs, entertains, and challenges readers to rethink what they know. A brilliant five-star achievement.

[Koby Goldner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most comprehensive and engaging books on American-Russian relations I’ve ever read. Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies strikes the perfect balance between rich historical detail and compelling narrative style. The author traces key events, shifting alliances, and repeated patterns of distrust with impressive clarity. Every chapter brings fresh insight into how the two nations moved between cooperation and confrontation. It’s a timely, relevant, and incredibly well-crafted work that deepens understanding of today’s geopolitical tensions. For history enthusiasts and political readers alike, this is an easy five-star must-read.

[Turner Hartmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

An extraordinary exploration of a relationship defined by both rivalry and reluctant partnership. Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies unfolds like a historical drama—full of turning points, personalities, and ideological clashes. The author’s command of the subject is remarkable, presenting a balanced and nuanced perspective on events that shaped the global order. I loved the way the book connects past misunderstandings with modern-day tensions, offering context that feels essential in today’s world. It’s meticulously researched, deeply engaging, and incredibly informative. A standout work of historical analysis—five well-earned stars.

[Mrs. Drew · Rating 5 out of 5]

A masterclass in historical storytelling. Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies breaks down centuries of diplomatic complexity into a fascinating, coherent narrative. The author doesn’t just recount events—he explains motivations, fears, and ambitions on both sides, showing how misunderstandings shaped world history. The writing is crisp, the pacing excellent, and the insights profound. Whether you’re a history scholar or simply curious about the roots of U.S.–Russia tensions, this book has something valuable to offer. It is clear, comprehensive, and compelling from start to finish. Absolutely deserves five stars.

[Prof. Pietro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand one of history’s most consequential rivalries. Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies takes readers through alliances, disagreements, wars, negotiations, and ideological battles with clarity and depth. The analysis is balanced and thoughtful, never resorting to oversimplification. Instead, it paints a rich picture of two nations constantly shaping—yet resisting—each other. I found the historical anecdotes especially compelling, offering vivid snapshots of diplomacy at its best and worst. Thorough, enlightening, and elegantly written, this is an easy five-star recommendation.

[Payton Hintz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A deeply engaging and exceptionally well-crafted historical account. Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies examines how two nations—often united by necessity yet divided by ideology—shaped global events across centuries. The storytelling is vivid, the research impressive, and the insights eye-opening. I appreciated the balance the author brings, offering fair, thoughtful reflections on both American and Russian perspectives. It reveals just how cyclical—and complicated—their relationship has been. This is the kind of history book that informs, entertains, and provokes reflection. A superb five-star read.

[Prof. Alexandria · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding, thoroughly researched exploration of U.S.–Russia relations. Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies is both sweeping in scope and intimate in detail, capturing the personalities, decisions, and historical forces that shaped centuries of tension and cooperation. The author breaks down complex political events with clarity and purpose, making the narrative accessible for all readers. Each chapter builds on the last, offering a holistic understanding of how this relationship evolved—and why it matters today. Insightful, engaging, and incredibly well written, this book deserves nothing less than five stars.

[Margarete Borer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Distant Friends and Intimate Enemies is an incredibly insightful look at the long, often uneasy relationship between the United States and Russia. The author’s expertise is evident in every chapter, presenting a nuanced understanding of political, cultural, and historical dynamics. What impressed me most was how readable and engaging the book is despite its depth. The narrative flows smoothly, and each era is explored with fresh perspective. This is the perfect blend of scholarship and accessibility. A powerful, thoughtful book that feels urgently relevant. Five stars, without question.