FIFA World Cup to provide a catalyst for Russia to come out of the cold.

This article was originally published in ABC Radio. Read the original article. 

This is an opinion piece by Professor Sandeep Gopalan, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Academic Innovation and Professor of Law, Deakin University. The author's view and opinion may not imply or reflect Deakin Law School's view. 

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The World Cup is the biggest major global event held in Russia since the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi.

In the intervening time, Russia’s relationship with Western countries has deteriorated considerably. The US, the EU and their allies have sanctioned and shunned Russia in response to their actions in Ukraine, election meddling and alleged assassination attempt in the UK.

But there are signs recently that Russia may be hoping that the World Cup may provide a catalyst for them to come out of the cold.

For a more detailed understanding, listen to the audio recording.