Moscow aims to defend the emerging multipolar world order against the vestiges of Western domination
Offering a glimpse into the nation’s strategic priorities beyond its borders, Russia has released its updated foreign policy doctrine, signed into effect by President Vladimir Putin on Friday. With significant implications for Moscow’s relationships with key players around the world, the document will undoubtedly be closely scrutinized in the weeks ahead.
Putin explained that the need to review the document was caused by “drastic changes” in the international landscape, including what Moscow described as an ongoing “hybrid war” waged by the West against Russia over its actions in Ukraine.
‘Major threat’ to international peace “aggressive anti-Russian policy” of the US and its allies as a major risk to Russia’s security, as well as to international peace and the development of a “just and balanced” future for humanity. “refuses to recognize the realities of a multipolar world” and aims to eliminate military and economic competition, as well as crack down on dissent, the document asserts. “Western hegemony,” the new policy claims, arguing that America and its allies have launched a “hybrid war” against Moscow aimed at weakening Russia “in every way possible.” “the numerous problems of our time.” Relations with the West “Russia does not consider itself to be an enemy of the West, is not isolating itself from the West, and has no hostile intentions with regard to it.” “pragmatic cooperation” with Russia on the grounds of mutual respect. Russia “is ready for dialogue and cooperation on such a basis,” the updated policy document states.Equality for all nations “broad cooperation” to neutralize any attempts by nations or military blocs to seek global military dominance. The document also urges all nations to take steps to avoid global war and the risks of using nuclear weapons – as well as other weapons of mass destruction – by strengthening international strategic stability, arms control, and non-proliferation regimes through international treaties.Key allies “sovereign global centers of power” such as China and India will be of significant importance for its foreign policy, according to the new paper. In particular, Russia will seek “comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation” in all areas with Beijing and a “privileged strategic partnership” with New Delhi. “investment and technological ties” as well as trade and security, including enhancing each other’s ability to resist the “destructive actions of unfriendly states.” Moscow endeavors to transform Eurasia into a continent of peace, stability, trust, and prosperity. Global and regional cooperation “friendly,” and believes that the Islamic world has “great prospects” and can become an independent and influential power in a polycentric world. It seeks to develop cooperation with all the major regional actors, including Iran, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and others. “neo-colonial policies of some developed states.” Moscow is ready to support the sovereignty and independence of African nations, including through security assistance as well as trade and investments, the new strategic document says. “on a pragmatic, de-ideologized and mutually beneficial basis,” as well as strengthen the existing friendly ties with such nations as Brazil, Cuba, and Venezuela. Moscow is also open to cooperation with any other nations ready to be constructive in their relations with Russia.