Russia and Recent Geopolitical Tactics

Russia has long been recognized as a significant geopolitical power, and in recent years, its geopolitical tactics have increasingly evolved. As global dynamics change, Russia is adapting its strategy to strengthen its presence on the world stage. One of the main tactics is the use of energy as a diplomatic tool. By controlling the energy market, Russia leverages its natural resources to influence European and Asian countries, creating a dependency that can be used in political negotiations. On the other hand, a new Cold War emerged in the form of regional conflicts and hybrid wars. Russia has been actively involved in the conflicts in Ukraine and Syria, using unconventional military approaches, including support for separatist groups and the spread of disinformation. Through this strategy, Russia is trying to expand its influence and shape a world order that is more in line with its national interests. Russia also uses international organizations to strengthen its position. By collaborating in BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Russia is expanding its networks outside the West and increasing cooperation in the economic and security fields. This strategy allowed Russia to create new alliances that reduced its dominance by Western countries. The use of information technology and cyber warfare is an important aspect of Russia’s geopolitical tactics. Various reports indicate that Russia is involved in cyber operations to undermine the political stability of Western countries and influence general elections. In this way, Russia seeks to divide the Western coalition and counter the economic sanctions it receives. In addition, Russia shows great interest in the Arctic. With climate change, new shipping lanes are opening up, and the region’s natural resources are becoming increasingly vital. Russia invests in military and civil infrastructure to ensure its presence there and stimulates its domestic economy through resource exploration. Another tactic used by Russia is to strengthen relations with countries that have been marginalized by Western countries. Countries in the Middle East and Africa are often targets for cooperation, both in the military, economic and cultural fields. Russia offers an alternative for countries that feel neglected by Western foreign policy. No less important, propaganda has become an effective tool in Russia’s geopolitical tactics. Through state media and social platforms, Russia disseminates narratives that favor its interests, creating a defensive approach that claims that its actions are to maintain security and sovereignty. As a result, Russia’s geopolitical tactics create challenges to global stability. Various involvement in conflicts, the use of energy as a weapon, and strengthening alliances with non-Western countries show that Russia is committed to its efforts to gain a more dominant position in the international arena.