Introduction. The relevance of the study is due to the need to ensure a synergetic effect within the framework of the Union State of Belarus and Russia, to create its positive image as an integration association in internal and external dimensions. The purpose of the study is to identify the specifics of cooperation between the regions of Russia and Belarus in the context of integration priorities of both countries. Materials and Methods. The research was based on the traditional study of documents, content analysis, comparative and multilevel analysis. The most important materials are official documents of Russia and Belarus, publications in the media, expert survey data, statistical information on the dynamics of interregional relations in the Union State. All of them together made it possible to concretize the signs of multifaceted communications in the field under consideration, to identify possible ways to improve the integration policy of the member states of the Union State in the face of escalated challenges and threats. Results. The peculiarities of the approaches of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus to the interpretation of interregional cooperation and integration in the format of the Union State are shown. The positions of the border regions are characterized. The content and orientation of media publications of different levels are analyzed, certain vulnerabilities are highlighted. Insufficient degree of interrelation of strategic orientations of integration and interregional interaction is found. The lack of manifestation of conflicting motives is offset by distancing from substantive coverage and discussion of topical issues, including by regional and local communities. Discussion and Conclusion. The performed research shows that the tasks of information support of the Union State, organization of “demand for integration”, training of personnel for “integration marketing” at the level of the regions of the two countries and expansion of their communication channels are unsolved. The recommendations made as a result are intended for representatives of state authorities and local self-government bodies and are aimed at improving the current situation through more effective use of existing advantages and mechanisms and the formation of new ones that meet the needs of integrating states and their regions.

The article is devoted to issues of the integration cooperation between Russia and Belarus within the framework of the Union State in the context of external influence at the present stage. It highlights the dynamics in the matter in the period from May 2020 to October 2021. In an applied research based on the methods of event analysis, frequency and thematic content analysis, the authors systematized the external challenges and threats articulated by the member countries of the Union State that hinder RussianBelarusian integration. They revealed specifics of the reaction of key actors to external influence in the context of the internal political situation and union construction. The interest of Russia and Belarus in building mutually beneficial cooperation and deepening integration is emphasized. The authors draw their main conclusion on a recognition of the catalyzation in the Union State integration interaction in the current period. Its driver was largely the negative impulses coming from the external environment. They also contribute additional mobility and instability to the motivation of internal actors and agents. Effective prevention, suppression and minimization of emerging risks are combined with overcoming existing gaps in the internal and external dimensions of the integration process.