Russia's security policy can be defined as actions by organs of state power, (lower) government agencies, social and other organisations, directed at safeguarding national interests against foreign and domestic threats. (Manilov, Voyennaya Bezopasnost Rossii, Moscow: Probel 2000) According to 1993 Constitution, national security policy is the prerogative of the President. The main organ that deals with issues related to national security is the Security Council of the Russian Federation that was established on June 3, 1992.
National security policy is laid down in the National Security Concept (NSC). The first published NSC appeared only in 1997 and was mainly concerned with internal threats. While still prioritizing internal threats, the 1999 and 2000 NSC became more concerned about foreign military threats. To read about the Russian Security Concept follow the link.
Disintegration, terrorism, nuclear safety and illegal proliferation of nuclear weapons are considered the main threats to Russia's national security. Apart from hard-security issues, there are also soft-security issues, such as environmental hazards and health-related issues. Russia, due to its economic weaknesses and structural changes, including the continuing search for an optimal model of government, is more exposed to these soft-security threats than any other country of the northern hemisphere, thus making the realization of the security policy even more complicated.
Also on the subject:
Center for Strategic and International Studies, Russia/Eurasia Program
Russia in Global Affairs magazine
Carnegie Moscow Center, Foreign and Security Policy Program