The Finnish Institute of International Affairs conducted a nine-month research project which focused on the developments of two great power relationships: (1) the relations between China and Russia, and (2) the relations between the United States and Russia. These relationships were analysed both in a larger global framework as well as from regional perspectives in the light of recent international as well as domestic developments. Even though the focus was on the aforementioned relations, the project also aimed at drawing conclusions for the European Union and Finland. The project was part of the implementation of the Finnish Government Plan for Analysis, Assessment and Research activities for 2018.