The Evolution of Russian Foreign Policy from Yeltsin to Putin’s Third Presidency

Conclusion

The central and pressing idea guiding the Russian leadership is Moscow’s persistent and determined effort to secure a place at the top of the current international system. This position would later enable Russia—over the medium and long term, and in cooperation with other major powers—to reshape the existing international order and replace it with a multipolar international system. Such a system, from the Russian perspective, would take into account the interests of all major powers, preventing any single power from monopolizing dominance over the international system on the one hand, and avoiding direct confrontation or conflict among these powers over specific issues on the other.

Nevertheless, some academics and scholars of political science argue that despite Russia’s constant emphasis on its opposition to a unipolar international order, and its call for a multipolar system characterized by justice, respect for international law and international legitimacy, and a broader role for international organizations—especially the United Nations—Russia still maintains real and strategic interests with the United States.

This suggests that Russia will ultimately seek to contain any disputes with Washington and resolve them in ways that safeguard its strategic interests and national security, without undermining its broader partnership with the United States.

Source:
Journal of Studies in Social Work and Human Sciences