Putin's Principles of International Relations: From Russia with Love (and Strong-Arm Tactics)

Putin's Principles of International Relations: From Russia with Love (and Strong-Arm Tactics)

By Ivan Falshiviy

As the world watches Russia's actions on the global stage with a mix of awe, apprehension, and confusion, it becomes increasingly important to understand the driving principles behind Putin's approach to international relations. In this article, we delve into the intricate web of power dynamics, geopolitical calculations, and, of course, a touch of communist theory that inform Putin's decision-making.

The Marxist Chessboard

To comprehend Putin's game plan, we must first journey into the realm of communist ideology. While Russia may have abandoned full-blown communism, its legacy lingers in the nation's political DNA. It is evident that Putin, a former KGB operative, has internalized the notion of power dynamics inherited from Marxist thinkers. The classic Marxist dialectic of oppressor versus oppressed serves as a guiding principle in Putin's worldview, albeit with a twist.

Twisting the Dialectic

While traditional Marxism posits that the oppressed should rise up and overthrow their oppressors, Putin has turned this concept on its head. Rather than supporting global revolutions, he lends covert (and sometimes overt) support to leaders who embody the principles of authoritarianism, thereby ensuring his influence across the globe. It's an approach that scholars have dubbed "authoritarian solidarity," and it has become a hallmark of Russia's diplomatic strategy.

Love, Putin-Style

To better understand Putin's mindset, one must examine his ironclad belief in the primacy of national interests. Like a doting mother bear fiercely protecting her cubs, Putin displays his love for Mother Russia in the form of uncompromising policies aimed at bolstering the country's position on the global stage. This fervent affection is intertwined with a determination to restore Russia's former glory, and nothing can stand in the way of Putin's quest for greatness.

The Art of Strong-Arm Diplomacy

One cannot discuss Putin's principles of international relations without acknowledging his fondness for flexing Russia's military might. From Crimea to Syria, Putin's military interventions have sent shockwaves through the international community. Critics argue that these gestures are nothing more than Russian aggression, but Putin would argue that they are simply strategic moves on the grand chessboard of global power dynamics.

The Machiavellian Hand

Machiavelli once wrote, "It is better to be feared than loved." Putin seems to have adopted this advice as his personal mantra. His leadership style is often characterized by a deliberate cultivation of fear, both domestically and internationally. Critics argue that this fear is a manifestation of Putin's ruthless nature, but supporters see it as a necessary means of maintaining control and respect in an anarchic world.

Beyond Borders

In addition to exerting influence through military interventions, Putin's web of power extends into the realms of economics, espionage, and propaganda. From cyberattacks to energy deals, Russia's reach knows no boundaries. With a firm grip on state-controlled media, Putin ensures that Russia's narrative is heard loud and clear, often drowning out dissenting voices. It is a form of soft power that amplifies Russia's global influence, further bolstering Putin's position on the world stage.

The Geopolitical Game

To fully comprehend Putin's principles, we must analyze them within the broader context of geopolitics. As a geopolitical player, Russia aims to reclaim its position as a major world power. By flexing its muscles and asserting control over neighboring territories, Putin projects strength and ensures that Russia's voice carries weight in global decision-making processes. It's a delicate ballet of power, where alliances are forged and broken, friendships are tested, and enemies are made.

A Delicate Balance

While Putin's approach may appear aggressive or even unpredictable at times, it is important to acknowledge the fine line he treads. Balancing his desire for power with the need to maintain stability and avoid direct confrontation with more powerful adversaries is a delicate dance. Putin's strategic calculations take into account various factors, including the shifting dynamics of global politics, economic considerations, and, of course, the will of the Russian people.

The Legacy of Lenin

In many ways, Putin's principles can be seen as an extension of Lenin's vision for the Soviet Union. Lenin famously said, "A lie told often enough becomes the truth." Putin has mastered the art of manipulation and propaganda, carefully constructing narratives that serve his interests. The legacy of Lenin's revolutionary ideals lives on in Putin's tactics, albeit in a modified and modernized form.

Conclusion

As we peel back the layers of Putin's principles of international relations, we find ourselves immersed in a complex web of power dynamics, geopolitics, and the echoes of communist theory. Putin's approach, while deeply rooted in the past, is a calculated response to the challenges of the present. Love for country, an affinity for strong-arm tactics, and a Machiavellian understanding of power dynamics all converge to shape Putin's decisions on the global stage. The world may question his intentions and methods, but one thing is clear: Putin's principles are here to stay, leaving an indelible mark on the international political landscape.