Introduction
Russia’s modern foreign policy is deeply shaped by its geography, history, and evolving global dynamics. As Henry Kissinger once noted, “Russia wants to establish absolute security.” This pursuit of strategic security—both physical and psychological—has long influenced Russia’s behavior on the world stage. Today, its growing sense of vulnerability continues to shape its actions in international affairs.
1. Key Drivers Behind Russia’s Security Concerns
Russia faces multiple geopolitical pressures that fuel its ongoing sense of insecurity.
1.1 Proximity to China
Although Russia and China maintain strong diplomatic and economic ties, Moscow remains cautious of China’s growing military and economic power. Their long shared border and China’s expanding regional influence pose long-term strategic challenges.
1.2 NATO and EU Expansion
The enlargement of the European Union and NATO toward Russia’s borders has significantly reduced the buffer zones that Moscow has historically relied upon for its defense. Many in Russia view this expansion as a direct threat to its traditional sphere of influence.
1.3 Instability in the Middle East and Central Asia
Ongoing conflicts and extremism in nearby regions increase Russia’s security concerns. These areas, vital for energy routes and regional partnerships, are seen as potential gateways for instability to spill into Russian territory.
1.4 Economic Sanctions and Energy Rivalry
Since the 2014 annexation of Crimea, Western sanctions have impacted Russia’s economy. In addition, global competition over oil and gas routes adds pressure to Russia’s economic stability and strategic interests.
2. Strategic Memory and Historical Experience
Russia’s approach to national security is heavily shaped by its history of invasions and territorial loss.
From Mongol invasions in the east to Napoleon and Hitler in the west, Russia has endured major threats to its sovereignty.
In response, the Soviet Union expanded its influence across Eastern Europe during the Cold War, creating buffer zones to prevent future invasions.
These historical events continue to influence Russia’s defensive posture and justification for regional engagement.
3. Military Actions Framed as Defensive
While many in the West view Russia’s recent military operations as aggressive, within Russia they are often seen as defensive moves to preserve national security.
3.1 The 2008 Georgia Conflict
Russia’s intervention in South Ossetia was officially aimed at protecting Russian citizens. Strategically, it signaled opposition to NATO’s expansion into its neighborhood.
3.2 The 2014 Annexation of Crimea
The annexation was framed domestically as necessary to safeguard Russia’s naval presence in the Black Sea and to maintain regional influence. Internationally, it heightened tensions with the West.
4. Strategic Doctrine and Ideological Influence
Modern Russian geopolitical thinking is shaped by both traditional strategy and evolving ideology.
One influential voice is Aleksandr Dugin, whose book The Foundations of Geopolitics argues that Russia should resist Western influence and lead a Eurasian bloc. Though controversial, the book has influenced some military and academic circles.
Conclusion
Russia’s foreign policy is deeply rooted in its historical experiences, geographic position, and desire to secure its borders and maintain strategic influence.
What may appear externally as assertive or expansionist behavior is often interpreted within Russia as a defensive strategy to preserve sovereignty, economic stability, and national identity.
To understand Russia’s global actions today, it is essential to view them through the lens of its past and its enduring quest for security in an unpredictable world.
