Russia

Russia’s relations with the West have reached its nadir following the military operation in Ukraine; this has led to a new emphasis on Russia’s “turn” to Asia. Nevertheless, it is still unclear whether Russia’s Asian pivot includes countries across the region or will remain Sino-centric. Russia needs to recalibrate the Eastern vector of its foreign policy and ASEAN countries appear to be as one of the best natural partners of Russia as they promote multilateralism and multipolarity that Russia favours. Russia should avoid being perceived as a pure declarative power in the region and, most importantly, an independent actor in relation to China.

Ukraine, egged on by the West, continues to fight an unwinnable war with disastrous effects on its people, the armed forces, the economy, and the future of Ukrainian society. Recent statements by European leaders and growing dissatisfaction about the economic situation indicate that it may be more prudent to achieve a political settlement of this war of attrition.

Geopolitical consequences in the aftermath of Russian agression against Ukraine have once again underscored that there is no alternative to common and collaborative security which is inclusive. The double standards in implementing human rights and se­lective wars of aggression on smaller states by great powers have led to a del­egitimisation of multilateral institutions and a world that is insecure for all.

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The origins of the present crisis are located in the history of Ukraine, Russia, and the Soviet Union. The decisive role of the continuous expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the hegemonic designs of the United States in precipitating the crisis is analysed.