The monograph examines a wide range of development issues of the Visegrad Group, which affect its capabilities as an independent actor in the European Union. The main economic and political transformations of the region’s countries during the period of their membership in the EU are analyzed. An attempt is made to assess the economic relations within the Group and the role of the Visegrad market for its members. Special attention is paid to the nature of relations with the largest and most important external partners for the Visegrad countries. Political positions of the Group on the key European agenda, its role in several initiatives of the EU are presented. Part of the study analyzes relations between the Visegrad countries and Russia, taking into account new challenges and opportunities for change in existing trends. The publication is intended for Agencies whose competencies include issues of foreign economic and foreign policy relations of Russia, as well as for researchers, teachers, students and for all readers interested in studying the Central European region.